Foster Care Definition
What Does Fostering Mean?
The Oxford Dictionary defines fostering or foster care as ‘temporary custody or guardianship for children whose parents are unable to look after them.’
There are many reasons why a child or young person might not be able to live with their birth family, including neglect, abuse, parental illness, family breakdown and police involvement.
This is where foster carers step in, as foster families provide children and young people with an environment where they can thrive. At Compass, we believe that this is the true meaning of fostering: to provide vulnerable children and young people with the love, care and support they need to improve their outcomes and succeed.
While some fostering arrangements are only for a temporary period of time, during which the issues that placed the child into foster care are resolved, some children and young people may also live with their foster families for many years. This depends on every child’s unique needs and circumstances.
What Is the Role of a Foster Carer?
Fostering is an incredibly fulfilling career that allows you to make a tangible, lasting difference in a child’s life. Whilst the heart of the role is providing day-to-day care, being a professional foster carer also involves some key responsibilities, ensuring each child in your care has the best possible start in life.
These involve:
- Acting as a role model
- Teaching everyday tools and skills, such as cooking
- Making sure children regularly attend school and are supported in their learning
- Offering new experiences, including holidays and other activities
- Supporting children's physical, mental and emotional well-being
- Keeping track of their progress and achievements in records
- Encouraging safe and positive contact with birth families whenever possible
Dive in Deeper
Why Foster Care?
There is currently a national shortage of foster carers.
You could help provide a home for a child in need.
Many foster children return to their birth families once the problems that brought them into foster care have been resolved. Sometimes, however, they may also remain with their foster family for many years, as this is actually in the child’s best interest.
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of looked after children live with foster carersGov.uk children’s social care questionnaires 2023.
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children in England & Wales are currently in foster careVia Fostering Network, 2022.
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of foster carers have already cared for 10 children or more“Go for it.”
Experienced foster parents, Brian and Lesley, share their honest insights for anyone considering this rewarding journey.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to learn more, their advice is refreshingly direct!
Join a community of thousands of foster families around the country
Everyone’s experience is different. That’s why foster care is so important, as it enables every individual child to find the most suitable foster family for them.
Is Fostering Right for Me?
Hear from existing foster carers and understand why they chose to foster. Find the answer to many of our frequently asked questions – including the most important skills for fostering.
Registration Process
Our 6-step overview of the fostering application process.
If you’re ready to start fostering with Compass, you might be wondering what your next steps would be. Thankfully, we have broken down our fostering process into 6 simple steps.
Fostering Requirements
We look for potential, not perfection.
As long as you match the basic criteria for fostering in the UK, you can apply to become a foster carer with Compass. We pride ourselves on having an array of carers from diverse and unique backgrounds.
Ready to Foster?
Your fostering journey begins with a conversation. Get started today.
About Compass
We pride ourselves in being big enough to support, small enough to care.
Request a Brochure
Learn more about becoming a foster parent and the benefits of joining Compass.