Educational Support for Foster Carers
Posted 24 September 2024
Why are there so many fostering agencies to choose from and why do their services differ? Well, traditionally fostering was driven through local authority, otherwise known as part of the wider governmental organisation. However, as the demand evolved for carers, smaller organisations began to develop that offer more unique services. These include increased support, enhanced pay and educational/development opportunities.
In this article, we will be focusing on how Footprints are dedicated to educational support for Foster Carers. This is one of many topics at the heart of the agency. As the philosophy begins with learning, we understand that not everyone starts at the same level and we aim to educate and develop all carers to be on the same scale.
Some children that come into care are extremely vulnerable and it is crucial that carers are trained to deal with all situations. It could be that a child enters the care system from a bereavement, or a home that is unable to keep them safe.
To succeed, carers need to have two components when it comes to training: knowledge and practical experience.
Knowledge Building
From the outset, Footprints provide tailored training with a blended approach; from online tuition, face to face sessions and support groups. We have a dedicated trainer who organises the training and facilitates some too.
The key training areas are: Therapeutic Parenting, Internet Safety, First Aid, Attachment and Behaviour Management. To begin with, your first training as a carer at Footprints will look at Skills to Foster, where you will gain a general knowledge of being a foster carer.
Practical Experience
Footprints will never throw you into the deep end! This means that as you build confidence as a carer, we will match you with a relevant placement that you can use your newly gained knowledge to build the practical side of care.
That does not mean you are then alone, as the support team are there 24/7 to support you in your first practical experience.
We welcome you to your first training as a Footprints carer should you wish to take the leap!
To find out more, why not join us for an informal online Zoom meet and greet to find out more?