What is fostering?
Sometimes children are unable to live with their own family. This may be due to a crisis in the family, ill health, relationship difficulty or bereavement. It could also be because they have experienced abuse and need to be protected. When a family has problems, our children’s services are committed to working with the parent or parents to make the home a safe place for the children. Whilst this is taking place we need to place the child in a family situation where they will feel secure and cared for. That’s where foster carers come in, looking after these children in their own homes, allowing time for difficulties to be sorted out. Some children may only need to be fostered for a weekend and others may need to be looked after until they are adults.
Why foster with East Riding of Yorkshire Council?
We are very proud of our foster carers and the incredible work they do for our looked after children. We want to create the very best experiences, support and training so they in turn can provide the most loving, stable and supportive homes for our children and we will endeavour to make fostering the most fulfilling and rewarding experience you have ever had.
We provide:
* High quality training and access to qualifications
* Practical, social and emotional support
* Fostering on a flexible basis, weekend, respite, short and long term
* A dedicated social worker committed to each foster carers needs
* A generous allowance to support the child/children whilst in the care of the foster family
* An additional financial allowance to match your growing skills
* Annual loyalty payment
* FREE membership to the gym and classes at East Riding Leisure Centres
* Regular FREE events exclusively for our foster carers
Can I foster?
It is highly likely that you will be able to become a foster carer! You must be at least 21, will need a spare room suitable for a child and the time, love and space in your life to be able to give a child in need.
How do I become a foster carer?
All potential foster carers undertake a process of checks, assessment and training before they can start to foster. Although the process may seem daunting at first, we will provide you with all the help and support you need through the process. On average it takes around 4-8 months to become approved.
I already foster, can I transfer agency?
If you are currently fostering with another local authority or agency and would like to find our more about transferring to us, we try to make things as quick and easy as possible. The first thing you need to do is get in touch with us for a chat about what is involved, call (01482) 396644.
Where can I find out more about fostering with East Riding?
Contact the FISH team for an information pack:
Tel: (01482) 396469
Email: fish@eastriding.gov.uk