Mainstream foster carers
There are several different types of mainstream fostering. You may find that you are more suited to a certain type because of your personal and professional circumstances.
In Bedford Borough all our foster carers are approved for children aged up to 18 years old (or from five to 18 if there are smokers/vapers in the home).
There are some distinctions in fostering, but there are also many overlaps. Most of our foster carers are approved for a variety of placements, some for every type of placement. A few are approved for just one type of placement, such as respite.
Long term or permanent
Long-term fostering placements give a child or young person somewhere to live for the duration of their childhood. In certain circumstances, young people can remain with their foster carers, if both parties agree, until the young person reaches the age of 21. This would be under a ‘Staying Put’ arrangement.
Short term
Short-term fostering is providing a child or young person with a home to stay until they can return to their own family, or until it becomes evident that they need a more permanent foster placement. This could be anything from a few days to a few years. There is no time limit on how long a child may need a placement; it is for however long a child needs to either return home or for a planned move to a permanent placement.
Respite
Mainstream foster carers can also be approved for respite care. These placements are for a limited time only. The respite period can benefit both the foster carer and the child, by offering the household a short break such as a weekend.
Emergency
Mainstream foster carers can also be approved for emergency care. Emergency foster care is needed for situations where a child needs a foster home urgently, either for a night or for a few days. This is usually unplanned, for example in a crisis.
Specialist
Tier 3 carers are specialist carers who have the skills and experience to look after children and young people who display challenging behaviours.
Parent and child
A parent and child placement is where parents can be supported alongside their children within a foster family. They might be having difficulties looking after their new baby or benefit from some extra help and advice. This type of fostering plays a crucial role in helping families stay together and ensuring the child’s best interests are met.
Connected persons fostering
Connected persons fostering is where you are approved to foster a specific child who is within your family or friendship network. They are likely to remain with you under this arrangement until they can return to their own family. This is also known as kinship or friends and family care. Where appropriate, you may go on to be approved by the Court as a Special Guardian for that child.
Download the special guardianship guide (PDF) to find out more.
Get in touch to find out more
Alternatively, phone us on 01234 718718 or email fostering@bedford.gov.uk.
Download the fostering information pack (PDF).