We meet many people who would love to foster children and young people. However, some worry they cannot do it full time. This may be because of work, lifestyle, family life or other commitments.
The good thing about fostering is that placements can be shaped around the needs of both the foster carer and the young person. There are several types of foster care, so you have options. This helps you find an arrangement that feels right for you and your home.
What is respite fostering care?
Alongside long term, short term and emergency placements, there is respite care. Respite care usually means short term foster placements. These may last for a weekend, during school holidays or, in some cases, for a few weeks.
Respite fostering is not the same as being a full time foster carer. Its main aim is to give support and stability to a child who is already living with a foster family.
The purpose of respite care is to give foster families, foster children or birth parents a short break. This gives everyone time to rest and recharge. Respite care may also be needed if a child cannot be included in a foster family’s travel plans.
Is Respite Care Right for Me?
You may want to foster, but your current situation might make full-time fostering difficult. You may work, have family commitments, or feel unsure about taking on a long-term placement straight away.
You might also be new to fostering and want to build your confidence first. In this case, respite fostering can be a good place to start. It allows you to care for children and young people for short periods, while still making a real difference.
At Ascent Fostering, we understand how important stability is for children. A safe and steady routine can support their long-term development and wellbeing.
We also know that foster carers and families need support too. Respite care gives main carers time to rest, recharge, or manage other commitments. This helps them continue giving children the care they need.
As a respite carer, you can enrich a child’s life on a short-term basis. You also become part of a wider support network that helps children, families and foster carers feel supported.
How Respite Fostering Works
Respite fostering gives children and young people short-term care in a safe and welcoming home. Placements are usually planned in advance. They may last for a weekend, part of a school holiday, or a few weeks.
Before the placement starts, you will receive information about the child. This may include their routine, likes and dislikes, health needs, behaviour, and any extra support they may need.
This helps you prepare and gives the child a smoother experience when they come to stay.
After the respite period, the child returns to their usual carers. During the whole process, the Ascent Fostering team will be there to guide and support you.
We work closely with you to help make each respite placement positive, calm and successful.
How do I become a respite foster carer?
To become a respite foster carer, the same fostering requirements still apply – must have a spare bedroom, be over 21 and have some financial stability. You can read our post to learn more about who can become a respite carer.
If you’re interested in respite care, or any other type of fostering, it’s definitely time to start your life-changing journey as a foster carer. Get in touch with us for an informal chat to learn more.
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