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Do you have the room in your heart -as well as your home

> Introduction to fostering	> Preparation, training and Support
> Steps to foster	> Frequently asked questions
> Types of fostering	> Find out more
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Recent Inspection Report - December 2007  (269.64 KB)

Introduction to fostering

Making the decision to foster a child is one of the biggest, but one of the most rewarding decisions anyone can make.

The best part about fostering is knowing that you are making a positive difference to a child or young person’s life, helping them to build a better future, by providing care and support at a time when they need it most. Being a foster carer is no easy task; children can be distressed, demanding and despondent.

People who foster for Worcestershire County Council are from all works of life. We are looking for people who are:

• Over 21
• Married, single or in a partnership, including a same sex relationship.
• Any race or ethnic origin
• In or out of work
• Practising a religion, or not
• Disabled or non-disabled
• Living in their own home or rented accommodation

Find out more  (129.16 KB)

8 Steps to foster…

The process of preparation and assessment will be thorough to ensure only safe people are approved as foster carers.

1. Initial enquiry
2. Telephone discussion
3. Initial home visit
4. Information day
5. Preparation course
6. Home visit
7. Assessment
8. Fostering panel

Remember that at any time you are able to withdraw from the process, if you do not feel that fostering is right for you and your family.

Find out more  (142.55 KB) about the stages to foster.

Types of Fostering

There is no such thing as a typical fostering situation and care of children could last from anything from a few days to several years. The following are the types of fostering that you could undertake. When you make your initial enquiry we will talk you through what may be best for you.

• Short term fostering
• Respite fostering
• Long term fostering
• Contract Care
• Support Care
• Parent and child Placements
• Respite for children with disabilities

Find out more  (245.02 KB) on the types of fostering.

Who are the children that need fostering?

Children need to be fostered for many reasons and for different lengths of time; all of the children we look after have complex histories and are likely to come from difficult backgrounds. They come into our care for a variety of reasons, and many have emotional and behavioural difficulties.

Find out more  (105.72 KB) about the children who need to be fostered.

Children with disabilities

Worcestershire County Council looks after many children, some of whom have disabilities. They may have learning or physical disabilities, complex medical conditions or vulnerable health. Children with disabilities are children first, but with additional needs so require extra care and attention.

Find out more  (176.26 KB) about children with disabilities.

Preparation Training and Support

If you express an interest to foster we will treat you with fairness and respect. Carers can be assured of support and advice before, during and after a child has been placed.

Find out more about training.

Find out more about the support you will get

“Ask questions, if you feel you are in trouble don’t de frightened to pick up the phone, ask for help, it is there.” Quote from one of our foster carers.

Frequently asked questions

I have no previous experience of fostering children?

No previous experience in fostering a child is necessary but knowledge and experience of dealing with children is important

Can I foster if I have children of my own, could this be problematic?

We actively encourage people with parenting experience. Your child or children will be involved throughout the process.

If you feel that you have the patience, experience and understanding that is needed to become a foster carer then please contact us to find out more:

Find out more...

Telephone: 0800 028 2158

Email: cs-adoption&fostering@worcestershire.gov.uk

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Get in touch with our Contact Centre:
Call: 0845 607 2000  or  Email: socialcare@worcestershire.gov.uk
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