Is fostering for me?
If you’re wondering if fostering is right for you, then this handy guide could help you decide.
Test yourself by answering yes or no to the following statements.
This is by no means an exhaustive list, but provides a good indication of the qualities required to succeed as a foster carer. It will give you some idea as to whether fostering is right for you and if you’re ready to become a foster carer.
About you
- I am over 25 years old
- I enjoy living or working with children and young people
- I am very honest with myself and others
- I am able to adapt my current lifestyle and routines to accommodate a child or young person’s needs
- I understand that a child will show their distress through their behaviour
- I am resilient and will see things through, even when the going gets tough
- I can put a child or young person’s needs before my own
- I think my expectations are realistic
- I like working as part of a team
- I’ve had a few knocks in life but have survived!
- I am in good physical and emotional health
- I have an ability to stand back and reflect
- I have a good sense of humour
- I don’t have any major unresolved issues in my life
- The thought of temper tantrums, swearing, mood swings, loud music, defiance, the joys of adolescence and a lot more doesn’t put me off!
Your circumstances
- I am able to commit to fostering on a full-time basis (See the Fostering and work section below for further information)
- I have a spare room which can be made pleasant for a child or young person
- My home is clean and comfortable
- I have access to transport
- I have a good network of people around me to provide encouragement and support
- If I have a partner or other people in my household, they are on board
Fostering and work
Fostering People requires all of our foster carers to have the time and availability to commit to a child or young person. Most fostered children have missed out on parental time and need your full care and attention. To become a Fostering People foster carer you must be available to them at all times and under any circumstances. We generally require that at least one person in the household takes on the full-time role of a foster carer and is not employed outside the home. With prior consent we are able to agree to the main foster carer having other employment, but only under the understanding that this would not stop you putting a child or young person first. Find out more about our fostering fees and allowances.
Supporting you in fostering
Fostering can be demanding and having a good support network of family and friends can help make a huge difference. If you become a foster carer with Fostering People, you will receive excellent support, including a dedicated Social Worker.
Register your interest now!
Speak to a member of the Fostering People team by calling 1800 303 532 or email us at info@fosteringpeople.ie. Alternatively complete the short online enquiry form.