Single parent fostering?

[Proudtrout]

On a bit of a fact finding mission 😊. Sorry if I'm repeating an old topic, couldn't find anything on here.

I'm a single parent to a 2 year old but have been thinking about the possibility of fostering when he's started school.

Anyone out there doing it alone? Is it doable or just too exhausting/emotional to bear? My family all live miles away so although I have lots of local friends for support I'm definitely lacking the backup that family might provide. That said I manage just fine with my son!

tia x

Thanks

I'm a single foster carer, my DS had just turned 3 when our first FC came. All our FC have been older than him. Yes, it's hard and exhausting and emotionally draining, but there are lots of single carers out there.

The assessing SW will be very interested in your support network as a single carer. Also your finances. With no partner to support you practically or financially, these are the potential stumbling blocks for single carers, I think.

I'm a foster carer. My own children were 10 and 11 when I started fostering. We only have babies as we don't have a spare room.
Financially it works out about equal to what I was getting as a part time teacher although of course it's 24/7 with little ones.
I love being at home and my kids benefit from it, I love the job it works really well for us although it is exhausting and I have very little practical support.
The worst bit is mostly definitely when the little ones move on, it's lovely to see them to go off with their forever families (if moving to adoption) but they definitely take a bit of my heart with them.
I've made friends with a lovely group of foster carers who've been a real support. Good luck!

Thanks Twogirlsandme interesting to hear a spare room isn't necessarily a deal breaker if fostering babies! My job (and profession in general) was really badly paid before having my son so I wouldn't be surprised if it worked out about the same.

I've just got so much respect for everyone who fosters, I'm really unsure how I'd cope emotionally which is why I'm going to spend a year or so giving it serious thought. Thanks for your feedback, much appreciated.

X

I'm a single foster carer; there are a few in our LA. I've found it easier being alone than bringing up my kids with my lazy exh! Now that was hard work!

merryinthechelseahotel sorry only just seen your reply - yes, I'm much more excited about the idea now I'm without the deadweight too 😂

If you want to know anything just ask!

Thanks! As I said, still just working it out at the moment but if I have any more questions I'll be sure to ask 😊 X