subject: Reasons why children might need foster care and benefits [print this page] A wide range of children and young people from all backgrounds come into care at different points throughout their childhood and adolescence, but one thing unites them all - the need for a stable and loving environment to help them thrive at this crucial point in their lives.
No two situations are the same among children needing foster care, and if you're considering becoming a carer you need to appreciate the diversity of situations and experiences affecting the lives of those needing care. Some children may have suffered abuse or neglect earlier in their lives, while others may be on the road to reunification with their families and need help making that transition.
It can be difficult to appreciate the staggering amount of difficulties and obstacles children and young people can face until you start investigating your options for fostering, which is why it can also be hugely beneficial to keep an open mind. Even if you have your heart set on fostering a child of a certain age or background, you could find your skills and attention have an even more positive impact elsewhere, such as fostering a child with special needs or behavioural difficulties.
Just as there are children from all walks of life needing foster care, so too can foster parents come from vastly divergent backgrounds. The main requirement of a foster carer is a commitment to providing a safe and attentive home environment for the people in their care, helping them to develop and enjoy a normal life just like anyone else.
If you can provide a comfortable, clean and safe home environment for a child or young person and you have the free time to devote to their needs, you could find foster care a hugely rewarding experience, helping to make a significant difference in peoples' lives. You'll find a dedicated support network is always right behind you, including social workers and your fostering agency, so you'll never be alone in your responsibility - and you should never be afraid to ask questions or address any issues as they arise.
All children are equally deserving of support and attention to realise their potential and get started on the right foot in their lives. Although fostering can be a big commitment, and a time-consuming process to ensure your situation is suitable, it could be one of the best decisions you ever make - both for yourself and those in your care.
Reasons why children might need foster care and benefits
By: Paul Buchanan
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