Fostering (Temporary)

“Sometimes its hard letting go… sometimes the reality is you know the child could do well here, but you still have to let them go home.”
- Angus carer

In general, when people refer to people who foster, they tend to be referring to carers who are offering their home to a child or young person on a temporary basis. As mentioned earlier, sometimes families have a crisis so severe that they can no longer look after their child in the family home. This may be because of illness or relationship breakdown. Sometimes the child may have been abused or harmed. Depending on these circumstances a temporary placement may last a few days, a few weeks, or even months. Sometimes it can last for a few years or until a young person moves on to their own accommodation. What ever the circumstances you will be kept fully informed, and be able to express your view about the future of the child or young person you are caring for.

Children who are received into care are often tearful and upset because they don't want to leave home. Younger children may not understand what is happening to them, older children may be angry and defiant. All children will be very anxious about change.

» Who are the Children?