Parent and Child Fostering

When it comes to fostering, there are many forms it can take. Parent and child fostering is just as crucial as traditional fostering and equally as rewarding. 

What is parent and child fostering?

Parent and child fostering is a form of short-term fostering where a single parent and baby are placed under your care. Often these parents are young and need extra support with taking care of their children until they feel like they can stand on their own two feet. 

Although not all the parents are young parents, many of them will have been in care or experienced poor parenting themselves in early life. Parent and child fostering gives them the chance to learn positive parenting skills that they can take away and break the poor parenting cycle.  

How long does parent and child fostering last?   

Some parents will make amazing progress and move on after a 12-week assessment some may take longer to find their feet. All placements last a maximum of 6-months, so if you don’t feel like you can commit to a long-term fostering placement, then this may be a great option for you. 

What skills and experience do you need to be a parent and child fosterer?

It is useful to have experience looking after babies but it’s not essential. If you have previous foster caring experience or have children of your own you’ll have everything you need to be able to welcome a parent and child into your home. 

You will need a big enough spare room that can fit a single or double bed, depending on whether you choose to take in single parents or couples. Plus, you will need room for a cot and some storage. Parents don’t need their own living areas as they can share with you and your family.   

There is no gender bias when it comes to main parent and child carers. Whether you’re male, female or non-binary, as long as you can provide a safe and supportive environment for parent and child then you are eligible to become the main carer. 

How to become a parent and child carer

Becoming a parent and child carer is ideal for those looking for a new challenge or wanting to retire from long-term fostering. All our p&c carers manage their own time and often choose to take some time off between their placements. 

If you’d like to become a parent and child carer then you can get in touch with our team using our online contact form, or call us on 01706 558910.