we are considering fostering

[Bigoleheffer]

Just me and 12 year old ds and much loved cat. Spare room. I work full time though. We have had a discussion. I've thought about it for years. Ds and I discussed it. He's really keen. I am too but mindful of the logistics and realities. I will pursue it but would love to have advice. What are your views on single parent, good job, practical experience of safeguarding and a lovely family in a position to give a nice home to a child?

Hey everyone :-)

I'm just testing the water but was wondering about becoming a foster carer for 0-12months (emergency short term) my question is this.......do you need spare room this age group? I know older children do require a room of their own but was wondering if it's different for babies? My partner works fulltime and I'm a fulltime mum to my 2yr old daughter. I'd be grateful for your input. Thank you for reading :-)

Hi Rosie,

You need to speak to your LA as every area is different, but lots of local authorities are not recruiting baby carers (0-2) as they just don't need them and it's not financially viable to recruit, train and support new carers whilst "old" carers have empty beds.

You also need to consider that "short term" placements are now referred to as "task centred" for a reason - they are often far from short term! I'm a task centred carer and my average placement length is 16 months. A child who comes to you as a baby could well be 3 before they leave - the reason most LAs request that you have a spare room, even for babies.

Definitely give your LA a ring though, it'll only cost you a phone call.