Types of Fostering
Fostering is not one single arrangement. Here is an overview of the different ways in which foster care can be provided in the UK.
Different Needs Call for Different Arrangements
Every child's situation is unique. These are some of the ways fostering can be arranged to reflect that.
Short-Term Fostering
Short-term fostering provides care for a defined period, often while assessments are carried out or while longer-term plans are made for a child's future. It can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months.
Long-Term Fostering
Long-term fostering offers a stable, ongoing home, sometimes until a young person reaches adulthood. It is generally considered when returning to birth family or adoption is not the plan for a child.
Emergency Fostering
Emergency fostering provides an immediate, safe place for a child to stay, often arranged at very short notice, sometimes overnight, while next steps are decided.
Respite Fostering
Respite fostering offers planned short breaks, supporting other foster families, kinship carers, or families of children with additional needs, so that everyone involved gets the rest and support they need.
Sibling Fostering
Sibling fostering keeps brothers and sisters together in the same foster home wherever this is appropriate and possible, recognising how important these relationships can be for a child's sense of identity and continuity.
Parent and Child Placements
Parent and child placements support a parent, usually a young or vulnerable parent, and their child together, often while parenting skills and the parent's ability to care safely for their child are assessed.
Specialist Fostering
Specialist fostering supports children and young people with more complex needs, such as disabilities, additional health needs or emotional and behavioural challenges, and often involves additional training and support for carers.
The type of fostering that is right for you, and for a child, depends on many factors, including your household, your experience and the needs of the children who require a placement at any given time. We are happy to talk through which arrangements might suit your circumstances.
Curious Which Type Might Suit You?
Every household is different. Get in touch and we can talk through the options together.