Types of fostering

We will then provide all the training, support and payments you need to succeed. During your assessment you can decide which type of fostering will suit you best. You may already have an idea about things like age-group; but if you wish, you can change your mind as you go along.

What age, gender and how many children?

Some of our carers foster only babies and toddlers; others get on better with school-age or teenagers. Many are happy fostering all ages. 

Some families only foster girls and some only boys. Most don't mind which.

One? Two? Or more? It is your choice; although we would have to discuss how much time and space you have if you wish to  foster several children at a time.

What are the types of fostering?

Short-term fostering

A child becomes part of your family until he or she can either go back to their birth family or move on to a new permanent family. A child can be with you for days, weeks or months – sometimes longer depending on circumstances. Short-term fostering can be exciting and very rewarding. Over the years, you will help to change the lives of several children. Your training prepares you for saying goodbye to children who you and your family have become very close to.

Permanent fostering

A child becomes a permanent part of your family. This is similar to adoption. The main difference is the legal status of the child. Permanent foster families continue to receive the same training opportunities and payments as other foster carers.

Remand fostering

This is a specialist scheme for young people remanded into care due to their offending behaviour. Only people with appropriate experience should consider this.

Short breaks

This is where disabled young people enjoy regular short stays of one or two nights a month with another family. This benefits the parents as well as the young person and is good fun for the family. Full training is given.

• Find out more information: Short breaks scheme for disabled children

Next steps?

 

Contact us

Ring us on: 0116 454 4500
Email: fostering.information@leicester.gov.uk