Get Started with Olive Branch
If you've been thinking about fostering, reach out to us to talk about taking the first step. We're waiting for someone exactly like you!
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Training and support
From your first enquiry to every child you look after, you'll receive the training, guidance and support you need to foster with confidence.
At Olive Branch Fostering, we believe that great foster carers are supported every step of the way. That's why we provide comprehensive training, expert guidance and a dedicated team that's always there when you need us.
Whether you're preparing for your first placement or have years of fostering experience, we'll help you build your confidence, develop new skills and provide the very best care for the children and young people you welcome into your home.
How will Olive Branch support me?
Fostering is rewarding, but it can also bring new challenges. You'll never be expected to face them on your own.
From the moment you begin your fostering journey, you'll have the support of an experienced team who are committed to helping you succeed. This includes a dedicated supervising social worker, regular home visits, 24-hour support outside office hours and opportunities to connect with other foster carers through support groups and forums.
Our therapeutic-led approach also means you'll have access to specialist advice and guidance whenever it's needed, helping you feel confident in supporting children with a wide range of needs.
Learning that grows with you
Training begins before you're approved and continues throughout your fostering journey.
You'll complete the mandatory Skills to Foster programme and the national Training, Support and Development Standards during your first year. From there, you'll have access to a wide range of learning opportunities covering topics such as safeguarding, trauma-informed care, behaviour, first aid, child development and supporting education.
As your experience grows, so will your training. We'll help you continue developing your knowledge and confidence so you feel prepared for every stage of fostering.
Learning together
We believe some of the best learning comes from sharing experiences.
Through regular support groups, fostering forums and training sessions, you'll have the opportunity to meet other foster carers, exchange ideas and build lasting relationships with people who understand the rewards and challenges of fostering.
You'll become part of a supportive community where advice is always available and no question is too small.
Support for the whole family
Fostering affects everyone in your household, which is why our support extends beyond the main foster carer.
We're committed to supporting your family throughout your fostering journey, recognising that everyone plays an important role in helping children feel safe, settled and part of family life.
Start your fostering journey with confidence
When you foster with Olive Branch, you're joining a team that genuinely cares about your success.
If you'd like to find out more about the training and support we provide, get in touch for a friendly, no-obligation conversation with our team.
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Common Questions
There are lots! Once approved as a foster carer, there are many opportunities to learn more about keeping children safe, managing behaviour, developing self-esteem in children, first aid, and many, many, more!
Once approved as a foster carer, you will be allocated a supervising social worker. They will visit you once a fortnight to discuss your foster child’s progress. In addition to this, members of our team are available for you to speak with at any time, day or night, 365 days a year. There are also regular local foster carer support meetings; a chance for you to meet up with our other foster carers in your area.
Here at Olive Branch Fostering we offer face to face training and also virtual. This will be dependant on your location and the type of training it is.