Long-term foster care is when a child or young person lives with a foster family for an extended period of time, sometimes until they reach adulthood. It’s different from short-term or emergency fostering, which is usually only for a few days or months while a more permanent plan is made. In long-term fostering, the aim is to give the child a stable home where they can settle and feel secure.
Long-term foster care can provide a middle ground
Many children who enter foster care cannot return to their birth families, but adoption may not be the right option for them either. In these situations, long-term foster care can provide a middle ground. The child remains legally connected to their birth family, but day-to-day care is provided by the foster carers. There was an increase in the number of foster carers in the Scottish Borders last year, with the rise set to continue.
One of the important things about long-term fostering is stability
Children who have moved around a lot often need time and patience to feel safe again. Living in the same home for several years can help them build trust, stay in the same school and develop friendships in their area. Many children in foster care Swansea are looking for safe and supportive homes. You can find out how to help online: saferfostering.org.uk/foster-care-wales/swansea/.
Foster carers play a role in supporting the child’s development
They help with homework, school runs, hobbies and family routines, just like any other parent would. At the same time, social workers remain involved to offer guidance.
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