Support Network for foster carers

Every parenting role is challenging and this is particularly the case for foster carers, because they are caring for children who have suffered complex trauma. In order to ensure that the child has consistent care, and that the foster carer/s can take a short break from fostering when needed, all Sparks Foster carers are required to have backup carers who would engage in a basic assessment, attend some basic training and would be available to care for the children looked after for a few days if needed.

A good support network is also required to provide emotional support to the foster carers when they have personal or fostering challenges, and some of the members of the support network will be asked to provide character references.