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What paperwork will I do as a foster carer
Blogs
Wondering about the paperwork involved in fostering? Discover what forms and records you’ll need to complete—and how Fosterplus supports you every step of the way.
How the matching process determines fostering success
Blogs
At Fosterplus, the matching process helps children thrive in the right foster families. Learn what makes a great match and why it matters.
Staying Put: How Aki found a new home and a new life in the UK
Case Studies
Aki shares his powerful story of fleeing his home country in Africa as a sanctuary-seeking child; adjusting to life with a UK foster family, and his hopes and dreams for the future.
“Every step forward is a triumph”: Meet award-winning foster carers Christina and Roy
Case Studies
Read the inspiring story of award-winning foster carers Christina and Roy, who transformed the lives of four siblings through long-term foster care. They share their incredible journey.
What happens at a fostering panel meeting?
Blogs
Attending a fostering panel meeting is a step that every person who becomes a foster parent has to take. But what is the purpose of a fostering panel? Why is it so important – and what happens when it’s over? Let’s take a closer look.
Stavrina’s journey through the assessment process and single parent fostering
Case Studies
Stavrina thought about fostering for several years before making the leap. She shares her journey through the assessment process and fostering as a single carer.
Fostering without limits: Brandon & Adam’s Story
Case Studies
Young couple Brandon and Adam chose to foster in order to start a family. Read their incredible journey and what life looks like now with their two foster sons.
5 things you should know about fostering
Blogs
Fostering is an incredibly rewarding role. Here are 5 things you may not have realised about fostering – shared by foster parents.
“I remember the first moment he called me mum”: Jodie’s story of long term fostering
Case Studies
From the age of three to sixteen, Steven’s life has been completely transformed by his foster parent, Jodie. She shares her incredible journey – from growing up in a fostering family to witnessing the life-changing impact of long-term foster care.
How intrusive is the assessment process in fostering?
Blogs
To ensure you’re a great fit for fostering, we’ll explore your family history and personal journey. Read on to learn what’s involved in the assessment process.
“Fostering for us has become a real adventure”: Theresa’s Story
Case Studies
Foster parent, Theresa, offers a glimpse into the adventurous life she’s built with her long term foster son.
What is the real difference between fostering with an agency and the council?
Blogs
We explore the differences between fostering with an independent agency and the local authority, to help you determine which option is more suitable for your family.
Leaving Care: Erin’s Story
Case Studies
“I think people have false expectations about what people who grow up in care are like.” 19-year-old Erin shares her experience with a foster family, Staying Put past 18, and her university success.
What are the Benefits of Fostering?
Blogs
As the New Year unfolds, it’s the perfect time to try new things and implement big changes. If you’ve ever thought of helping children in need, there’s no better time to start than now by becoming a foster parent.
Fostering Teenagers around Christmas
Blogs
Fostering a teenager at Christmas can bring questions and challenges, as it may stir difficult emotions for them. This guide offers practical tips to help you prepare and support teenagers during the festive season.
Making Christmas Special with Foster Children: Tips for Foster Carers
Blogs
Read about some of the ways you can make Christmas special for children in your care, with some insights from foster carers.
Fosterplus Scotland Awarded Very Good By Care Inspectorate
News
Fosterplus Scotland have received a rating of ‘Very Good’ in their recent Care Inspectorate inspection.
Popular Show Highlights Real Stories of Foster Families
News
Kiri Pritchard-McLean’s brand-new comedy show ‘Peacock’ gives an honest, heart-warming and hilarious look at what it’s like to be a foster parent in the UK. Our foster parent, Sonia, shares all.
Fosterplus Awarded Certificate of Excellence
News
Fosterplus have received an award, in recognition of outstanding commitment to trauma-informed practice.
Fosterplus Finalists at the Children and Young People Awards 2024
News
Fosterplus are proud to be a finalist in two categories at this year’s prestigious Children and Young People Awards.
Exploring Black British History with your Foster Children
Blogs
Black History Month UK in October highlights the history, achievements, and experiences of black communities. As a foster parent, teaching children about black history is vital.
Understanding Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
Blogs
This month at Fosterplus, we’re spotlighting this often misunderstood condition and exploring ways foster parents can better support children with FASD.
Does Bullying Go Away?
Blogs
Many children and young people face bullying, which can impact their self-esteem, mental well-being and relationships now and in the future. In this article, we explore the definition of bullying, why it occurs, and how to help a child or young person deal with bullying and recover from its impact.
How to Support your Foster Children to Succeed
Blogs
Help your young person shine on results day with our top tips. Plus, discover their next steps with our foster parent guide.
What are the Barriers to Fostering?
Blogs
If you’re thinking about becoming a foster parent and wonder if there are any barriers to fostering, you’re in the right place. We are busting the common myths about fostering requirements, the application process, support and financials.
Helping Foster Children to Navigate Their Feelings on Father’s Day
Blogs
Let’s dive into some strategies to help your foster child understand and manage their emotions, ensuring they have a joyful and peaceful Father’s Day.
“Mum, I’m not sure where I’d be if it wasn’t for you!”
Case Studies
58-year-old Tracey is a foster parent based in Warwickshire. Since 2003, Tracey’s looked after five long-term foster children in that time, who she’s raised alongside her own children. One of her foster children now stays with her in a ‘staying-put placement’ which is where a child continues to live with their foster parent after turning 18.
Fostering Open Conversations in Your Foster Home
Blogs
Talking about mental health with your foster children not only strengthens your connection with them but also lays a vital foundation for their positive mental well-being throughout life. Discover practical tips and strategies to effectively engage in these important conversations and foster a supportive environment that promotes mental health awareness and resilience.
Effective Strategies for Nurturing Positive Behaviour in Newly Fostered Children
Blogs
When a foster child first becomes a part of your family, it can be a challenging period of transition. Each child is unique, and their experiences in their previous home environment may influence their behaviour in a variety of ways. Using the example scenarios below, we will explore some key strategies which can help to guide your foster child’s behaviour in a positive way.
Mandy’s Transfer Case Study
Case Studies
“For me it’s seeing them happy, progressing, learning new things, having new experiences, and the opportunities to fulfil their dreams.” Mandy Lees started her fostering journey five years ago with another foster care provider. During these five years, she’s had two long term foster children and ten who stayed for respite. Last year, Mandy transferred from the council to Fosterplus.
“To be a foster carer has been a dream of mine”
Case Studies
Danielle always wanted to be a foster carer. She shares her first year of fostering this Mother’s Day.
Mumsnet Questions: What should I expect from my first home visit with the social worker?
Blogs
Explore what to expect from your first home visit with a social worker as answered by Mumsnet. Gain insights and prepare for a positive experience.
Shona Shares her Experience of Working & Fostering
Case Studies
Shona, 34, is a primary school teacher, and alongside husband Andrew, she’s been fostering since 2020. Shona loves fostering, and balances working full time alongside raising her two foster children and her birth son.
Steve Shares his Experience of being a Male Foster Carer
Case Studies
At first, it didn’t matter to me that I was going to be a male foster carer, I was just going to be a foster carer but now I understand just how important it is.
Finances and Fostering
Blogs
Affording to become a foster carer: A guide to the financial aspect of fostering, how foster parent allowances and benefits work, and ways to get the most out of money and improve your financial stability as a foster parent.
The Ideal Time for a Fresh Fostering Start in 2024
Blogs
As we approach 2024, this is the opportune moment to embark on your fostering journey. But how can you determine if it’s the perfect timing for you?
10 Ways to Make a Foster Child Feel Special at Christmas
Blogs
Christmas can be a special time for a family. Some of our foster parents share their tips on how to make a foster child feel special and part of the family at Christmas.
Things You Need to Know About Fostering Siblings
Blogs
Explore vital insights on fostering siblings. Learn the essential things you need to know about providing a supportive home for multiple children.
Helping Children Deal with Bullying and Cyberbullying
Blogs
One of the biggest challenges young people face is bullying and cyberbullying. We discuss what this means, how to spot the signs and what to do to support your child.
Maintaining Your Mental Well-being as a Foster Parent
Blogs
Foster parents invest significant time and effort in safeguarding the mental well-being and happiness of the children in their care. However, it’s essential to consider: Who is taking care of the foster parents themselves?
Black History Month 2023
Blogs
At Fosterplus, we are celebrating Black History Month. Download useful resources and get involved via our poetry competition.
“I wasn’t ready not to be a mum anymore.”
Case Studies
Alison is a mother and a grandmother. She started her fostering journey in 2017 and has had several young people in her care over the last 6 years.
How to Help Youth Aging out of Foster Care
Blogs
Most young people leave foster care at 18 years old. Unfortunately, a number of foster children are never able to reunite with their families, essentially leaving them alone in the world with little support. How can we help prevent the youth from aging out of the foster care system?
Fosterplus South Team Delight in their Outstanding Result
News
Fosterplus South is celebrating after receiving an ‘Outstanding’ rating following an official inspection from Ofsted. The latest result is a huge achievement for Fosterplus which achieved ‘outstanding’ in all areas.
Meaningful Ways to Use a Spare Room
Blogs
Here are five ideas to inspire you to transform your spare room into a purposeful and (potentially) life-changing space.
“It’s good to know everyone’s culture. If it’s important to the child or their family, then we do what we need to do.”
Case Studies
Super parents, Maryelen and Billy, share their inspiring story which has led them to foster over 50 children and create a charity close to their hearts.
“You get to take these children in and give them better hope for the future”
Case Studies
Foster dad John shares his love for fostering and family life.
Finding Purpose as an Empty Nester
Blogs
Finding purpose as an empty nester can be tough, but fear not! There are so many incredible opportunities to fill that empty space in your home when your own children fly the nest.
The Power of Pets in the Home
Blogs
Having pets at home can provide joy for the whole family, but can also help with your mental and physical health too.
Guide to LGBT+ Fostering
Blogs
There are many myths around who can become a foster parent, but your sexual orientation makes no difference in providing care to a child. Read more in our guide to fostering as an LGBT+ carer.
“I kept thinking I’m good at caring for people and I’d love to give a child a loving home”
Case Studies
As a single woman in her 60s, and with her own children all grown up, Jane now had the time and focus to care for a foster child. She shares her inspiring story.
7 Behaviour Support Strategies in Fostering
Blogs
Foster children can often need support with behaviour. Read our 7 strategies for supporting your foster child.
8 Ways Dogs Can Help with Depression, Stress, and Anxiety
Blogs
A dog can bring so much to your family, and even help alleviate symptoms of depression, stress, and anxiety.
How to Manage Emotions when your Foster Child moves on
Blogs
A foster child leaving your care is a moment that many foster parents worry about. Yet it is an inevitable and important part of fostering. We’ve put together some guidance on how to cope when a foster child leaves your home.
A Guide to Autism in Children and How to Support them
Blogs
Caring for an autistic child is a challenging yet hugely rewarding experience. Read our guide on how Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects children and how best to support them.
Why it’s the Right Time to Start Fostering
Blogs
Fostering a child is a life-changing role that can seem like a big step to take. These six new reasons reveal why it’s the perfect time to become a foster parent.
Tax Cut for Foster Parents
News
Chancellor Jeremy Hunt announces an increase in tax relief for foster carers, meaning a greater income for thousands of foster families.
Edinburgh Rugby Star Delivers Special Gift to Foster Child
News
A 13-year-old fan enjoyed a special visit from his favourite player at Edinburgh Rugby Club, after his rugby ball was stolen at school.
“To be a foster carer has been a dream of mine”
Case Studies
Danielle always wanted to be a foster carer. She shares her first year of fostering this Mother’s Day.
7 Spare Room Ideas to Transform Your Space
Blogs
Discover some of the best ideas for transforming your spare room at home.
10 Ways to Help Keep Foster Children Safe Online
Blogs
Learn about the risks for children using the internet, and how to keep them safe.
How to Create a Safe Space at Home for Children
Blogs
Find out how to help a foster child settle in by creating a calm and safe space at home.
Young Person Raises £240 For Homelessness
News
A young person at Fosterplus has taken on a 20 mile cycling challenge to raise money for homelessness charity Social Bite.
It’s What We Do That Matters Most
Blogs
Why this year’s John Lewis Christmas advert is the message we all need.
10 Tips for Keeping Children Safe at Halloween
Blogs
Make sure your foster child’s Halloween is all treats and no tricks with this handy guide to keeping them safe.
5 Signs it’s Time to Transfer Fostering Agency
Blogs
As a foster parent, being supported by the right agency can make all the difference to your fostering career. Here are the signs that you’re ready to transfer to another foster care agency.
A Guide to ADHD in Children and How to Make a Positive Difference
Blogs
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can affect a child’s behaviour in different ways. Read our guide to ADHD in children and how to support them.
“This is me, the way I want to be”
Blogs
One foster child shares a poem ‘This is Me’, published in a book about ‘Hopes and Dreams’, and showing the importance of a supportive family.
How to Support Children with a Different Cultural Background
Blogs
Foster children are usually matched with foster families of the same cultural background. However, on the rare occasion you are caring for a child of a different ethnicity or background to your own, here are 7 tips for supporting them.
Reasons for Fostering when your Children Leave Home
Blogs
Fostering at any stage of life can be extremely rewarding. Here are six reasons why having an empty nest at home could be the start of an exciting new chapter in foster care.
What is Post-18 Care? – Options for Leaving Foster Care at 18
Blogs
Most young people leave foster care at 18. Post-18 care is another option, and it helps ensure care leavers have a better chance at adult life.
Things to Consider when Wanting to Transfer Fostering Agency
Blogs
Reaching the decision that you’re ready to transfer agencies can be a huge step. To help foster parents choose the right fostering agency for them, we’ve put together all the factors you’ll want to consider before taking the leap.
10 Positive Behaviour Strategies in Foster Care
Blogs
It’s a good idea to learn some of the best strategies for dealing with challenging behaviour before you foster. Discover our top 10 positive behaviour management strategies for children in foster care.
Difference Between Short and Long Term Fostering
Blogs
When people decide to foster, they may choose between short and long term fostering. Learn what the difference is to make the right choice.
“Fostering is the best thing that I have ever done”
Case Studies
Same-sex foster parents, Craig and Byron reflect upon their first year of fostering.
“I can’t imagine life without our children in it”
Case Studies
Kenny and Brenda share their experience and advice as both fostering and adoptive parents over the past decade.
“It’s building that relationship between the brothers that we just love to see”
Case Studies
Lisa and her husband, Andy, share their experience of completing the fostering assessment and welcoming brothers into their home in the middle of a global pandemic.
“Fostering is the most rewarding thing you will ever do”
Case Studies
Foster parents, Lorraine and Robert share their fostering experience over the past decade, including their experience of keeping siblings together in foster care.
“Becoming a single foster parent was a life-changing experience”
Case Studies
Hugh Wright, who has been fostering for nearly 12 years, shares his experience of becoming a single foster parent.
Child in care raises over £1,000 for children’s hospice
News
A young person in our care has raised over £1,000 for a children’s hospice by cycling over 200km.
Project Linus Provides Comfort Blankets for Children in Care
News
Our Milton Keynes fostering team comes together with Project Linus to share handmade comfort blankets with children in care.
“The difference you can make to a child’s life is just truly immeasurable”
Case Studies
Richard shares his experience as a single foster parent and caring for a vulnerable young person during a pandemic.
Keeping the Promise
News
Chrise Grundy Hoban, Head of Operations for Fosterplus Scotland, outlines her commitment to #KeepthePromise for the children and young people of Scotland.
“I just couldn’t stop thinking to myself, ‘I want to help; I want to make a difference…’”
Case Studies
Sarah and her husband, Steven, decided to embark on a new journey in fostering just over three years ago, after a lifetime of wanting to give children a brighter future.
Welcoming our first foster child
Case Studies
Adi and Kelly started fostering in 2019 and have cared for a number of children in a short space of time. Today, they share their experience of welcoming their first child.
Lessons from a first time foster parent
Case Studies
Taryn is a foster parent, who shares her experience of fostering and welcoming her first child into her home.
Mike and Rose
Case Studies
Rose and Mike, foster parents based in Milton Keynes, have provided over 100 periods of vital care.
“There’s nothing like seeing the world through a child’s eyes”
Case Studies
Theresa, a foster parent based in Gloucester, shares the magic of Christmas.
Celebrating Foster Parents Who Are Keeping Siblings Together
News
We are celebrating inspiring foster parents who are keeping siblings in care together.
Fostering Assessments with Fosterplus during social distancing
News
Read how Fosterplus are assessing new foster parents during the Covid-19 government restrictions.
“Fostering has given us the ability to become parents for the first time”
Case Studies
Foster parents, Denise and her husband George share how they’ve been able to give children who have had a poor start in life, a better future.
Our Response to COVID-19
News
Read Fosterplus’s response to Covid-19.
Fosterplus Donates Over 300 Items to Food Banks This Christmas
News
Read how Fosterplus have been collecting food to help those in need during the festive season.
Team MK Take On 12-Hour Cyclathon for Children In Need
News
Read about our 12-hour cyclathon challenge undertaken by Milton Keynes team to raise money for Children in Need.
Becoming a single foster mum: my fostering assessment
Case Studies
Single mum, Nikki, shares her experience of being assessed to become a foster parent.
Fosterplus Ayr Recognised for Improving Health & Wellbeing of Workforce
News
Find out more about how our Ayr office has been recognised for helping to improve health and well-being of staff.
How to Support Children Already Living with you When Fostering
Blogs
If you’re thinking of becoming a foster parent, read some great advice from our experienced foster carers on how to support children already living with you when fostering.
Things to do on the First Day with a Foster Child
Blogs
Our foster carers share advice for welcoming your first foster child and what to do on that first day.
How to Prepare for Your First Foster Child
Blogs
Foster carers share their advice and tips for welcoming your first foster child.
5 Tips to Keep Children Safe Online
News
Read our guidance on how to keep children safe online.
How to Get Your Child to Wear a Helmet
Blogs
Children’s safety is so important so we’ve put together some easy tricks that you can try for getting your child to wear a helmet when out on their bike.
“We watched from the window and cried as they drove off”
Case Studies
Suzanne shares her powerful story of fostering a young boy, who completely transformed in her care and preparing to say goodbye as he went on to be adopted by his forever family.
Food Bank Appeal Success
News
Read about how our teams at Fosterplus have been busy gathering food donations over the festive period to donate to food banks across the country.
How You Can Encourage Learning Over Christmas
Blogs
Take a look at our suggestions for fun, festive activities that encourage learning for children.
How You Can Help Your Child Deal with Frustration and Anger
Blogs
We share advice on supporting your child in managing their emotions, and dealing with feelings of anger and frustration.
A New Life In The UK – Senay’s Story
Case Studies
Supervising Social Worker, Sue shares the story of a young boy in our care, who made the brave decision to leave his home country of Eritrea.
Edinburgh Has Been Fundraising
News
Read how our Fosterplus team in Edinburgh have been raising money for MacMillan Cancer Support.
Carers Shortlisted for Two Fostering Excellence Awards
News
Read about our Paisley foster carers who have been shortlisted for two Fostering Excellence Awards.
Fostering Better Outcomes
News
Read the Government Response to the ‘Independent Review into Fostering, Foster Care in England February 2018.
Trauma Teddies
News
The team at Fosterplus Edinburgh have been creating cute and colourful teddy bears which will be given to looked after children and those in traumatic situations.
Firefighter Shares Fire Prevention Tips at Carer Support Group
Blogs
It’s important to be aware of fire safety, especially within the home. One of our foster parents who is a Firefighter shares their guidance on fire prevention in the home.
“We soon realised that they just wanted to be loved”
Case Studies
Irene started fostering 6 years ago and shares some of her best memories as a foster carer.
Summer Kitchen Project Launch
News
Our Milton Keynes team have launched a brand new campaign to encourage children to grow and cook with their own fruit and vegetables.
We’re celebrating LGBT history month
News
We’re dressing up for Purple Friday, to show our support of LGBT history month.
Fosterplus Help Raise £1,222 for BBC Children in Need!
News
Read how our teams at Fosterplus came together to raise an amazing £1,222 for Children in Need.
“My one regret? That I didn’t make that call 10 years earlier!”
Case Studies
Originally a nurse, Elaine decided to retrain to be a foster parent. Since being approved, her only regret was that she didn’t do it 10 years earlier!
A Day In The Life Of A Foster Carer
Case Studies
Sandra and John have been fostering for two years and are caring for a 16-year-old girl called Katlyn. Today, they share a day in the life of a foster family.
Edinburgh Team at the Children’s Food Trust Course
News
Foster Carer Denise and Recruitment Officer Susan had a successful day at the Children’s Food Trust for their Children’s Food course.
Fostering on Mother’s Day
Blogs
Some of our carers share their stories on how they celebrate Mother’s Day as a foster parent.
“They’ve been a welcome addition to our family”
Case Studies
Starting out their fostering career caring for younger children, Heidi and Lee decided to take on caring for teenagers too and have loved the joy it brings.
How Hard Is It To Keep Siblings In Foster Care Together?
Blogs
We researched the statistics of siblings in foster care. Bloggers share their views on the findings.
Alan and Helen’s Fostering Journey
Case Studies
Alan and Helen have cared for many children during their fostering career, including three unaccompanied teenagers on a long-term basis.
Foster Carer Achievement Event
News
Fosterplus celebrated the achievements of their foster carers in Long Eaton with a special awards lunch.
“It doesn’t take much”
Case Studies
Yasmin, a birth daughter of one of our foster parents explains what it’s like to be part of a family that fosters.
How does fostering affect my benefits?
Blogs
Learn more about how becoming a foster parent affects any benefits you may be claiming.
How Foster Care helped shape a Champion
News
Read David’s story on how he not only became a Scottish and British Gymnastics Champion, but also competed on behalf of Great Britain and won over 10 gold and silver medals in international competitions.
Staying Put – Before and After legislation came into effect.
News
A look at the changes to legislation before the Staying Put Scheme was introduced and how this has affected young people.