Support and Training

It is very important to us that our foster carers feel fully supported in their role.

To achieve this we offer:

• Free training and support beforehand - to help you prepare to be a foster carer, and a strong programme of on-going training once you are approved - to help you build on your skills
• Ongoing training throughout the year via all six local authorities
• 24 hour duty social worker support, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, so there is always someone to turn to
• A dedicated supervising social worker who will meet with you regularly and be there to support you on a day-to-day basis
• Competitive allowances and fees to support you while you have a child in placement and to value your skills as a foster carer
• Local support groups, consultation events and invitations to a range of fun social events for you and your family
• A range of fostering opportunities including short term, long term and specialist fostering schemes
• Membership with the Fostering Network, an independent national charity which offers: free insurance for legal expenses; 24-hour helplines providing legal and medical advice including stress counselling; special members’ prices on publications, training and events along with other information and advice services
• Membership to a local Fostering Association in place to represent the interests of foster carers in the local community.