The growing need for parent and child Foster Carers in Norfolk and Suffolk

Could you help tackle the shortage of parent and child foster carers?

The UK is currently facing a significant fostering crisis. Recent figures show there is a shortage of around 6,000 foster carers nationwide. Across Norfolk and Suffolk, more vulnerable families than ever need the support of dedicated foster carers — and parent and child foster carers are at the heart of making that possible.

Parent and child arrangements occur when a concern has been identified by the Local Authority in relation to parenting capacity or the home environment the child is living in.

The parent(s) then come to stay with our foster carers, where our parent and child foster carers:

• Observe – see what is happening and how the parent and child interact.

  • Model – demonstrate tasks for the parent(s) to watch and learn.

  • Teach – take the parent through things they may not know step-by-step.

  • Guide – remind, encourage, and correct without being critical, while offering praise.

The parents we work with in these types of arrangements may not have been parented well themselves, and therefore may not have the experience to base their own parenting on.

The arrangement offers the parent and child a safe family-based fostering environment, while decisions are made about their future together or apart, or until suitable independent accommodation is identified. The foster carer works alongside and supports the parent, while it remains the parent’s responsibility to care for the child.

A parent and child foster carer in Norfolk or Suffolk will support the parent with practical skills such as preparing feeds, cooking, weaning, bathing, budgeting, and helping them prepare for independence. Foster carers are also required to provide a high level of supervision to both the parent and child. In some cases, this involves 24/7 supervision, including overnight support and being aware of any safeguarding concerns.

Due to this, we are looking for people who can be available at all times of the day and night to support a parent and their baby. Parent and child fostering is a full-time commitment, and foster carers must be prepared to provide consistent care and support.

When supporting a parent and child, you will receive a fostering allowance, which helps towards the cost of essentials such as food, clothing, and furniture, as well as recognising your commitment to fostering.

Norwich, Great Yarmouth, Swaffham, Thetford, Stowmarket, Ipswich, and Lowestoft are just some of the areas we urgently need foster carers. If you live in Norfolk or Suffolk enquire today to start your journey as a foster carer with an ofsted outstanding fostering agency.

If you can help improve the lives of both a parent and their baby, and are interested in becoming a foster carer in Norfolk or Suffolk, please get in touch here to find out more.