If you become a short-term foster carer, a child will become 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.
Foster carers choose for themselves which age-group they feel happiest looking after.
Children often feel upset and confused about living away from home. So, as well as offering a welcoming home, you will also need to be a good listener and comforter.
Short-term fostering can be exciting and very rewarding. Over the years, you will play a vital part in helping many children.
“Is it hard to let a child go? The honest answer is: ‘yes - sometimes’. If you are a short-term foster carer, a child could be with you for a few months or longer. The children become part of your family. You and your own children are bound to become very attached to these children – you wouldn’t be human if you didn’t. And of course they become very attached to you. But you always have to think about what is going to be best for them for the future. It is part of your job to fill a child full of confidence and help them to move on. It’s hard sometimes, but you know that, as one child is waving goodbye, there is always another coming along who needs you just as much. Our family is an important stepping stone for several children not just one.”
Can you join our great team and help local children who need a family? Find out more by using the links to the left of the screen or by ringing 0116 299 5800 or send us an online enquiry form.
Or e-mail us at fostering.information@leicester.gov.uk
If you prefer you can download an application form here and post it back to us Fostering Application Form (PDF File)
