Foster Carers

Teenagers need fostering too Fostering teenagers can be challenging. It can also be incredibly rewarding. They're often overlooked. But teenagers need safe, stable and supportive foster homes just as much as younger children do. Sometimes, they need them even more. Teenage years can be complicated at the best of times. For a young person who has experienced trauma, loss or uncertainty, having someone who is patient, consistent and willing to stick with them can make a huge difference. They might not always make it easy. There may be challenging days, difficult conversations and times when it feels like you're getting nowhere. But there will also be moments when you see their confidence grow, celebrate their achievements and know that you've helped a young person feel safe, valued and believed in. Could you be that person? You don't need to have previous fostering experience. You don't need to have all the answers. You do need:

• Patience and understanding
• Resilience and consistency
• A willingness to listen and learn
• The ability to set clear, appropriate boundaries
• A genuine commitment to helping a young person thrive
• A spare bedroom or a room in your home that could be made into a bedroom
When you foster with Fostering Rotherham, you're not doing it alone. We'll provide:
• Comprehensive training before and during your fostering journey
• Dedicated support from our fostering team
• A supervising social worker to support you
• Access to a wider network of foster carers
• Regular support groups, events and opportunities to share experiences
• Financial support and fostering payments
• Respite and other support where appropriate
• Ongoing learning and development
• Blue Light Card, gym membership in Places Leisure Centres in Rotherham and other benefits.
And perhaps most importantly, you'll have a team around you who understands that fostering can have its ups and downs.
• You could make a lasting difference.