There are lots of things that a foster carer must do in their day to day life. When they are looking after a child, that becomes a top priority. So, what does it really mean to be a good foster carer? This question has many possible answers, and the guide below will explore a few of the key highlights.
Working as a Team
One thing that you will always need to do is work as a part of a wider team. You sign up with an agency like Fostering People and they provide a social working team that becomes a main point of both support and contact wherever you need it. They will help you to make decisions and open up access to training opportunities along the journey.
Making Independent Decisions
You will also have to make a lot of independent decisions and be confident enough to do so. While the major stuff like going on holiday and medical appointments is often led by the social workers in the agency, you will be in charge of a lot outside of this. The expectation is that you know what the best decision is and how to see it through. For example, while there will be advice about setting up a good routine in the home, it is up to you to execute it.
Being a Role Model
Did you know that foster carers are also role models for the children they look after? Whether you create an instant bond or it takes a little bit more time for the frost to thaw, everyone you do will be watched carefully by the children in your house. So, you have to show up in a genuine way and give it your all. This means owning mistakes, apologising, celebrating successes, and being careful with your language choices and emotional responses too.
Advocating
Foster carers are their children’s biggest advocate in any walk of life. They are the people who get to know the young person and communicate their needs to the wider team. You will do this so that the children you look after have the best chance possible of getting everything they need while they live with you, and after they leave. This could be in school, with a peer group, or even for seeking out the right support services like therapy.
Facilitating Contact
Another thing you may do is facilitate contact between the child and their family. This can be a hard situation sometimes, and this means staying as neutral and empathetic as you possibly can. It is only natural for there to be tension in this area, but you will receive so much training on how these situations should go and safety red flags to watch out for as well. Be led by your social worker team and listen to the child in the middle as well so that you are doing the right thing at the right time.
