There are a range of fostering timescales depending on the unique situation of the child, some can last a number of days and other children are fostered for months or even years.
Short Term Fostering:
This is when a child returns to the family home as the difficulties which caused them to leave, are resolved. Or for the child to move on to a new long-term fostering placement, until child is 18 years old or a new permanent adoptive family, when the decision is made that they can no longer live with their own birth family.
Respite Care:
Disabled children or children with special needs or behavioural difficulties can enjoy a short break on a pre-planned, regular basis with a new family while their parents or usual foster carers have a short break for themselves.
Parent and child placement:
Most research shows that where it is safe for a child to remain with their parent then this will lead to the best outcomes for that child. This is a specialist type of fostering where the role of the foster carer is to show the parent how to look after the child appropriately and be on hand to offer guidance. The foster carer will help put in routines along with the parent, and support the parent to use the new skills in their own practice.
Long Term / Permanent:
The foster care will provide a permanent family home until the child is eighteen and can then move to independent living.
Specialist Placements:
We also provide carers for children with disabilities. Specialist care for these children could involve physical disability, autism, learning difficulties or medical conditions. Our training that will support you to promote the best outcomes for the child.