Therapeutic Led Fostering

Therapeutic Led  

It is sometimes considered the most challenging type of foster care. Our therapeutic led care placements are built on intense training, which empowers the foster carer to feel confident when dealing with the most complex types of foster care. These children may have suffered trauma, abuse, and neglect and bring to the placement a wealth of behavioural and psychological challenges that can be difficult to break through. 

Therapeutic led foster care is a process which needs to be taken one day at a time, but the Olive Branch Fostering team are here to help at every twist and turn. 

Will I be supported?  

Yes, of course… we all recognise that there will be a time that comes when you need more help or support.  Our Therapeutic Carers have access to a dedicated therapeutic team, offering support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.  

Do I receive a Fostering Allowance?  

We offer an enhanced fostering allowance and additional paid respite for all Therapeutic Foster Carers. Our Fostering Advisors can share more details.  

Do I need to have been a parent myself, to be a Therapeutic Carer?   

No, you don’t.  You just need to be able to draw on your life experiences to date, to be open and honest, and to show empathy in having a positive impact on a young person’s life.  

What does it take to be a Therapeutic carer:  

• Emotionally robust, adaptable, and able to draw on your life experiences to date.  
• Comfortable working with a team of professionals, this is likely to include a Supervising Social Worker, Therapeutic Social Worker, Local Authority Supervising Social Worker, and schools. In many cases you’ll also be liaising with birth families.  
• In many cases you’ll also be liaising with birth families, so being open and comfortable in building these relationships is key. Understanding the importance of building relationships with birth families and ensuring stability and safety for the child when dealing with their emotions associated with this.  
• Never being afraid to ask for help, or reach out for support when you need it, that’s what the Olive Branch Therapeutic Support team are here for.  
• Confidence in taking on new ways of parenting – best suited to the child or young person living in their care.  Seeing the value in the support network around you. 

Therapeutic led foster care is a process which needs to be taken one day at a time, and the Olive Branch Fostering Family are here to help and support at every twist and turn.  

“Children who need the most love, will ask for it in the most challenging ways. If you have a desire to make a difference, and know you’ll feel comfortable to lean on the support network around you, then you’re ready to take the next step…” Hilary, Therapeutic Lead at Olive Branch Fostering