Training and support for foster carers

We want our foster carers to enjoy fostering and be equipped to do it well, which is why we provide a range of training and support services.

Every foster carer has a specialist social worker to support them. This social worker will also provide regular informal supervision sessions in which your performance, developmental issues and future plans will be discussed. You can also have access to other professionals to help you look after a child e.g. a psychologist.

We encourage foster carers to make use of support groups where you can meet with other carers and share ideas and concerns.

Every foster carer receives Preparation training during their assessment period to give him or her the knowledge and information they require to gain a more realistic picture of what's involved in caring for children in care.

Once you start fostering, you will agree a personal development plan detailing what training you would benefit from to improve your knowledge and skills.

You will be expected to attend a number of core training courses designed to support your work and you will be required to undertake a Caring for Children and Young People NVQ (National Vocational Qualification).

Our foster carers are also able to attend relevant Social Care Staff training courses.