The field of evidence based, or emerging evidence approaches to support children and young people to heal from trauma is a growing field and definitely hopeful. What we do know is that healing does begin in the home and with the relationships around a child. To care for a child that has come into care due to neglect/abuse ideally means you are a willing to take a peek around the world of trauma and healing from trauma. Below is a snapshot of two key areas to consider when you are caring for a...

Once you have decided you would like to be a foster carer, your next critical decision is choosing an agency to be a foster carer with. This decision really will set up your foster care journey. A recent national survey showed that the key area carers wanted improvement was linked to the quality of support provided by their foster care agency and team that supported them. You actually have plenty of choice when it comes to picking a foster care agency. When you start enquiring with agencies,...

As a foster, relative/kin carer it is good to accept quite early that it is highly likely that you will have numerous caseworkers (and managers) in your journey as a carer. In the 13 years I have been a carer we have had relatively little churn – 9 caseworkers (across 2 agencies). Anyone that is already a carer will know that the skills and attitude of caseworkers can vary and at times you will find your role is definitely in the ‘advocacy’ space to ensure the needs of the child or children...