In the UK, around 8,000 foster carers are needed. This is 1,000 more than 2017. Which is why we’re reaching out to potential carers to get in touch about becoming a foster carer in 2019. While it may be one of the most challenging things you’ll do – it’s also one of the most rewarding as you make a positive impact…
We’ve previously written about teaching your child to be smart about social media and we’ve been keeping an eye out for the latest tips and advice for being social media savvy with your children. As a carer, it is important to be aware of what social media platforms are available and popular amongst children and young adults, and to also be aware…
Halloween is right around the corner, and for kids this is a time of excitement, dressing up, and going trick-or-treating. For carers and parents, however, it can be a stressful time being concerned with keeping your child safe but also allowing them to have a fun time. So, we’ve pulled together some tips on celebrating Halloween this year. Costumes There…
In Kent and Surrey, there are many teenagers needing foster placements. If you are over the age of 23, have a spare room and space in your heart, you may just be what we’re looking for. You must be able to offer a range of skills to become a good foster carer; being mindful, empathetic, and understanding. Communication is key…
A new school term can be a nerve-racking time for parents and children alike, so we’ve rounded up a few tips to help with forming a new routine for the year ahead. Understand what’s in store – you’ll have read the information from the school about the new school or term ahead. From uniform to stationery, through to school times and…
Foster care is for children of any age up to 18 years old, this means we’ll be looking to place teenagers with foster carers. Children of all ages will come with their own set of challenges, and teenagers are no different, but not necessarily more difficult to care for. As a foster carer, you can draw on your own experiences as a…
Around 2,000 children are living without their siblings, despite their care plan saying they should be kept together, according to a report by the BBC’s Victoria Derbyshire programme*. Last year, the Fostering Network reported that 86 per cent of fostering services had told them they had a need for more foster carers for sibling groups*. A big issue with why…
After the panel make their recommendation, the Agency Decision Maker considers all the evidence and makes a decision. Usually this upholds the panel recommendation and the applicant becomes an approved foster carer. The team then start to look for a match with a child. During this time, the supervising social worker will start an induction process with the carer and the…
As part of the process to become a foster carer you will be required to attend a fostering panel which recommends the approval for new applications. This part of the application process can seem daunting to some people, so we always advise our carers on what to expect so they feel well prepared before attending. Who will be on the panel? Our…
Young people come into care for various reasons, invariably they have been let down by the adults in their lives. This is where foster caring steps in, and we are always looking for foster carers to become part of the OwnLife team. Our mission with any child placed through us is that they stay as long as possible with the same family, so as…