Fostering is a way to care in a family for children who can't live with their own family; this may be for a short time or on a long-term arrangement.
We are looking for carers for children aged 0-16 from a range of ethnic backgrounds and particularly those who can look after:
We need people to foster children both on a short term (temporary) and long term (permanent) basis. We can help you to make a decision on the age range, number and type of children you are able to foster.
Many different people become foster carers and they come from various backgrounds and circumstances. We welcome people from all walks of life. You can be:
You will need to have a spare bedroom if you wish to foster children.
The important thing is you can offer support, guidance and a positive caring family environment to help children feel secure and valued while they live in your home.
Applicants need to be at least 21 years of age but there is no upper age limit as long as applicants are in good health. Children under 5 years of age aren't placed with applicants that smoke.
You will receive preparation and guidance in becoming a carer, as well as on-going training, practical and financial support. Our carers receive a weekly payment fee plus a weekly allowance for each child in their care.
There are many reasons why children of all ages may need foster care. Their parents may be experiencing difficulties, and so can't care for their children for a while. Children may have suffered abuse including physical, sexual, emotional abuse or neglect.
Children are likely to feel scared and anxious when they arrive. They may be worried about their family and can be worried about both staying away from home and about going back. This could lead to challenging behaviour from them.
Foster carers will need to work with parents, social workers and other professionals to help the child overcome past difficulties. They can help make informed decisions about how to meet the child or young person's needs too.
You can be assessed to be a local authority foster carer as a:
Carers are asked to be available to care for children in many different circumstances. A child might be placed on an emergency basis and only need an overnight stay. Another child might stay with their carer for a year or more whilst assessments are undertaken and care plans agreed. Sometimes little is known about the child before they are placed.
This is a permanent arrangement. Long term fostering is a common option for older children who need a stable long term placement.
Where a successful long term placement is made and the carers and children have become attached to each other, then the carers sometimes can apply to be special guardians for the child, depending on the circumstances.
For more details on fostering, please contact the family placement service on 0800 073 0291 or email us at familyplacement@slough.gov.uk.
'I wish I had done fostering years ago. It is the most rewarding thing that I have done in my life.' Foster carer
'When you can see a child smile, laugh – talk about what they want for the future it gives a sense of hope that what we do makes a difference as a family.' Foster carer
'You are never on your own. I get excellent support from my supervising social worker who is always there to provide advice and guidance whenever I need it.' Foster carer
'People ask us if it is a difficult job and our answer is yes – but then what job isn't when you want to do it well?' Foster carer
For all enquiries please contact the Customer Service Centre
01753 475111
01753 875030
MyCouncil
Landmark Place
High Street, Slough
SL1 1JL, opposite
Slough Library
MyCouncil opening times.
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