Agreed to emergency foster but still here a month later

[Theirishwan]

I’ve fostered for over 10 years now. I do very regular respite fostering (3 weekends out of 4) and used to do long term fostering. After the breakdown of our last full time placement I decided that i can’t do long term anymore.

however, as soon as the SW phone me with a background story my heart melts. I’ve made it very clear that I won’t do long term any more but this lovely little girl is still with me. I’m very conscious of the bond we are building and have told the SW that I’m very worried that it’s getting very close to Christmas and we are away for 10 days over Christmas so they need to find a long term placement sooner rather than later but still no joy.

it’s really heartbreaking but I can’t offer the next 7 years of my left - she’s 11 now

Write an email formally giving (eg) 28 days notice making the point you have a flight booked for the following day so there is no possibility of any extension.

Your SSW and the LASW need to be working for her to be settled into another longer term family before Christmas. I would ask to talk to a manager if you feel this is drifting on. Or are there proceedings where they think she might return home by then? You could contact the IRO if you feel you aren't listened to and they aren't working to the child's timescale.

Working in this field it is so so difficult and there are a significant shortage of foster placements even for very young children! Can you ask your SSW to chase this and give very clear timescales? Giving written notice is also a good idea.