Respite fostering is a crucial service offered by independent fostering agencies like Footprints across the UK. It provides short-term care for children and young people, giving their full-time foster carers or families a temporary break.

These placements are carefully planned to ensure continuity of care for the child and are a rewarding way for respite foster carers to make a meaningful impact in a flexible role.

What is respite fostering?

Respite fostering involves caring for a child for a short period, which could range from a single weekend to a couple of weeks. It is often used to:

• Allow full-time foster carers or birth families time to rest and recharge
• Provide care during emergencies, such as when the primary carer is unwell
• Support families during school holidays or other specific times when extra help is needed

Why it matters

Fostering can be a demanding role, and respite fostering plays a key part in sustaining the well-being of full-time carers, ensuring they can continue providing the best care for children.

For the children, respite fostering offers continuity and stability during transitions while giving them new experiences in a supportive, welcoming environment.

Respite foster carers come from all walks of life. Whether you’re single, in a couple, working, or retired, if you have the time, space, and commitment to care for a child, respite fostering could be an ideal role. It is particularly suited to those who may not be able to commit to full-time fostering but still want to make a difference.

Benefits of Respite Fostering include:

• • Flexibility: Care for children only at times that suit your schedule
• • Rewarding Role: Build connections with children and provide essential support
• • Financial Allowance: Footprints’ competitive allowances reflect the time and care provided
• • Comprehensive Support: Access to training and 24/7 assistance from Footprint’s qualified team.

Get in touch

By becoming a respite foster carer with Footprints, you’ll play a vital role in supporting foster families and helping children thrive.

Contact us to learn how you can make a difference, one short stay at a time.