fostering news and case studies

News & Blogs

Read all the latest news, blogs and case studies.

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Christmas wth a fostering teenager

December 2 2024 8:00

Fostering Teenagers around Christmas

Blogs

Fostering a teenager at Christmas can bring questions and challenges, as it may stir difficult emotions for them. This guide offers practical tips to help you prepare and support teenagers during the festive season.

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November 28 2024 9:14

Making Christmas Special with Foster Children: Tips for Foster Carers

Blogs

Read about some of the ways you can make Christmas special for children in your care, with some insights from foster carers.

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November 19 2024 9:06

Fosterplus Scotland Awarded Very Good By Care Inspectorate

News

Fosterplus Scotland have received a rating of 'Very Good' in their recent Care Inspectorate inspection.

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November 12 2024 14:14

Popular Show Highlights Real Stories of Foster Families

News

Kiri Pritchard-McLean's brand-new comedy show 'Peacock' gives an honest, heart-warming and hilarious look at what it’s like to be a foster parent in the UK. Our foster parent, Sonia, shares all.

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November 7 2024 9:14

Fosterplus Awarded Certificate of Excellence

News

Fosterplus have received an award, in recognition of outstanding commitment to trauma-informed practice.

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October 23 2024 10:06

Fosterplus Finalists at the Children and Young People Awards 2024

News

Fosterplus are proud to be a finalist in two categories at this year's prestigious Children and Young People Awards.

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Black History Month

September 30 2024 12:00

Exploring Black British History with your Foster Children

Blogs

Black History Month UK in October highlights the history, achievements, and experiences of black communities. As a foster parent, teaching children about black history is vital.

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September 18 2024 12:00

Understanding Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder

Blogs

This month at Fosterplus, we're spotlighting this often misunderstood condition and exploring ways foster parents can better support children with FASD.

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How To Deal With Bullying

August 14 2024 12:00

Does Bullying Go Away?

Blogs

Many children and young people face bullying, which can impact their self-esteem, mental well-being and relationships now and in the future. As a foster parent, it's essential to be prepared to manage bullying when it occurs. In this article, we explore the definition of bullying, why it occurs, and how to help a child or young person deal with bullying and recover from its impact.

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August 1 2024 8:00

How to Support your Foster Children to Succeed

Blogs

Help your young person shine on results day with our top tips. Plus, discover their next steps with our foster parent guide.

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new foster dads

July 3 2024 8:00

What are the Barriers to Fostering?

Blogs

If you’re thinking about becoming a foster parent and wonder if there are any barriers to fostering, you’re in the right place. We are busting the common myths about fostering requirements, the application process, support and financials.

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June 6 2024 11:22

Helping Foster Children to Navigate Their Feelings on Father's Day

Blogs

Let's dive into some strategies to help your foster child understand and manage their emotions, ensuring they have a joyful and peaceful Father's Day.

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May 13 2024 9:00

“Mum, I’m not sure where I’d be if it wasn’t for you!”

Case studies

58-year-old Tracey is a foster parent based in Warwickshire. Since 2003, Tracey’s looked after five long-term foster children in that time, who she’s raised alongside her own children. One of her foster children now stays with her in a ‘staying-put placement’ which is where a child continues to live with their foster parent after turning 18.

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Mental Health

May 6 2024 8:00

Fostering Open Conversations in Your Foster Home

Blogs

Talking about mental health with your foster children not only strengthens your connection with them but also lays a vital foundation for their positive mental well-being throughout life. Discover practical tips and strategies to effectively engage in these important conversations and foster a supportive environment that promotes mental health awareness and resilience.

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foster child refuse the meals

April 5 2024 12:00

Effective Strategies for Nurturing Positive Behaviour in Newly Fostered Children

Blogs

When a foster child first becomes a part of your family, it can be a challenging period of transition. Each child is unique, and their experiences in their previous home environment may influence their behaviour in a variety of ways. Using the example scenarios below, we will explore some key strategies which can help to guide your foster child’s behaviour in a positive way.

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April 2 2024 12:00

Mandy's Transfer Case Study

Case studies

“For me it’s seeing them happy, progressing, learning new things, having new experiences, and the opportunities to fulfil their dreams.” Mandy Lees started her fostering journey five years ago with another foster care provider. During these five years, she’s had two long term foster children and ten who stayed for respite. Last year, Mandy transferred from the council to Fosterplus.

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March 6 2024 12:00

“To be a foster carer has been a dream of mine”

Case studies

Danielle always wanted to be a foster carer. She shares her first year of fostering this Mother’s Day.

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Fostering home visit

February 14 2024 8:40

Mumsnet Questions: What should I expect from my first home visit with the social worker?

Blogs

Explore what to expect from your first home visit with a social worker as answered by Mumsnet. Gain insights and prepare for a positive experience.

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January 23 2024 12:00

Shona Shares her Experience of Working & Fostering

Case studies

Shona, 34, is a primary school teacher, and alongside husband Andrew, she’s been fostering since 2020. Shona loves fostering, and balances working full time alongside raising her two foster children and her birth son.

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January 16 2024 12:00

Steve Shares his Experience of being a Male Foster Carer

Case studies

At first, it didn’t matter to me that I was going to be a male foster carer, I was just going to be a foster carer but now I understand just how important it is.

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January 3 2024 12:00

Finances and Fostering

Blogs

Affording to become a foster carer: A guide to the financial aspect of fostering, how foster parent allowances and benefits work, and ways to get the most out of money and improve your financial stability as a foster parent.

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new foster parent

January 2 2024 8:00

The Ideal Time for a Fresh Fostering Start in 2024

Blogs

As we approach 2024, this is the opportune moment to embark on your fostering journey. But how can you determine if it's the perfect timing for you?

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December 19 2023 12:00

10 Ways to Make a Foster Child Feel Special at Christmas

Blogs

Christmas can be a special time for a family. Some of our foster parents share their tips on how to make a foster child feel special and part of the family at Christmas.

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December 18 2023 12:00

Things You Need to Know About Fostering Siblings

Blogs

Explore vital insights on fostering siblings. Learn the essential things you need to know about providing a supportive home for multiple children.

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November 27 2023 10:14

Helping Children Deal with Bullying and Cyberbullying

Blogs

One of the biggest challenges young people face is bullying and cyberbullying. We discuss what this means, how to spot the signs and what to do to support your child.

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foster care matching process

October 9 2023 12:00

Maintaining Your Mental Well-being as a Foster Parent

Blogs

Foster parents invest significant time and effort in safeguarding the mental well-being and happiness of the children in their care. However, it's essential to consider: Who is taking care of the foster parents themselves?

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October 6 2023 12:00

Black History Month 2023

Blogs

At Fosterplus, we are celebrating Black History Month. Download useful resources and get involved via our poetry competition.

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September 19 2023 12:00

"I wasn't ready not to be a mum anymore."

Case studies

Alison is a mother and a grandmother. She started her fostering journey in 2017 and has had several young people in her care over the last 6 years.

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fostering teenagers

September 18 2023 12:00

How to Help Youth Aging out of Foster Care

Blogs

Most young people leave foster care at 18 years old. Unfortunately, a number of foster children are never able to reunite with their families, essentially leaving them alone in the world with little support. How can we help prevent the youth from aging out of the foster care system?

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September 11 2023 11:00

Fosterplus South Team Delight in their Outstanding Result

News

Fosterplus South is celebrating after receiving an ‘Outstanding’ rating following an official inspection from Ofsted. The latest result is a huge achievement for Fosterplus which achieved ‘outstanding’ in all areas.

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August 18 2023 12:00

Meaningful Ways to Use a Spare Room

Blogs

Here are five ideas to inspire you to transform your spare room into a purposeful and (potentially) life-changing space.

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foster parent and child

July 5 2023 11:14

“It’s good to know everyone’s culture. If it’s important to the child or their family, then we do what we need to do.”

Case studies

Super parents, Maryelen and Billy, share their inspiring story which has led them to foster over 50 children and create a charity close to their hearts.

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June 15 2023 11:14

“You get to take these children in and give them better hope for the future”

Case studies

Foster dad John shares his love for fostering and family life.

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June 7 2023 12:00

Finding Purpose as an Empty Nester

Blogs

Finding purpose as an empty nester can be tough, but fear not! There are so many incredible opportunities to fill that empty space in your home when your own children fly the nest.

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June 1 2023 9:08

The Power of Pets in the Home

Blogs

Having pets at home can provide joy for the whole family, but can also help with your mental and physical health too.

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May 24 2023 10:18

Guide to LGBT+ Fostering

Blogs

There are many myths around who can become a foster parent, but your sexual orientation makes no difference in providing care to a child. Read more in our guide to fostering as an LGBT+ carer.

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May 16 2023 11:14

“I kept thinking I’m good at caring for people and I’d love to give a child a loving home”

Case studies

As a single woman in her 60s, and with her own children all grown up, Jane now had the time and focus to care for a foster child. She shares her inspiring story.

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May 4 2023 9:08

7 Behaviour Support Strategies in Fostering

Blogs

Foster children can often need support with behaviour. Read our 7 strategies for supporting your foster child.

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April 6 2023 10:06

8 Ways Dogs Can Help with Depression, Stress, and Anxiety

Blogs

A dog can bring so much to your family, and even help alleviate symptoms of depression, stress, and anxiety.

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April 2 2023 10:11

How to Manage Emotions when your Foster Child moves on

Blogs

A foster child leaving your care is a moment that many foster parents worry about. Yet it is an inevitable and important part of fostering. We’ve put together some guidance on how to cope when a foster child leaves your home.

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March 23 2023 10:18

A Guide to Autism in Children and How to Support them

Blogs

Caring for an autistic child is a challenging yet hugely rewarding experience. Read our guide on how Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects children and how best to support them.

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March 22 2023 11:11

Why it's the Right Time to Start Fostering

Blogs

Fostering a child is a life-changing role that can seem like a big step to take. These six new reasons reveal why it's the perfect time to become a foster parent.

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March 20 2023 9:14

Tax Cut for Foster Parents

News

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt announces an increase in tax relief for foster carers, meaning a greater income for thousands of foster families.

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March 14 2023 9:14

Edinburgh Rugby Star Delivers Special Gift to Foster Child

News

A 13-year-old fan enjoyed a special visit from his favourite player at Edinburgh Rugby Club, after his rugby ball was stolen at school.

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March 6 2023 10:10

“To be a foster carer has been a dream of mine”

Case studies

Danielle always wanted to be a foster carer. She shares her first year of fostering this Mother’s Day.

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February 28 2023 16:08

7 Spare Room Ideas to Transform Your Space

Blogs

Discover some of the best ideas for transforming your spare room at home.

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February 1 2023 9:20

10 Ways to Help Keep Foster Children Safe Online

Blogs

Learn about the risks for children using the internet, and how to keep them safe.

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January 16 2023 9:08

How to Create a Safe Space at Home for Children

Blogs

Find out how to help a foster child settle in by creating a calm and safe space at home.

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December 8 2022 10:14

Young Person Raises £240 For Homelessness

News

A young person at Fosterplus has taken on a 20 mile cycling challenge to raise money for homelessness charity Social Bite.

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November 11 2022 10:14

It’s What We Do That Matters Most

Blogs

Why this year’s John Lewis Christmas advert is the message we all need.

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October 26 2022 12:00

10 Tips for Keeping Children Safe at Halloween

Blogs

Make sure your foster child’s Halloween is all treats and no tricks with this handy guide to keeping them safe.

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October 19 2022 13:00

5 Signs it’s Time to Transfer Fostering Agency

Blogs

As a foster parent, being supported by the right agency can make all the difference to your fostering career. Here are the signs that you're ready to transfer to another foster care agency.

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October 10 2022 13:00

A Guide to ADHD in Children and How to Make a Positive Difference

Blogs

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can affect a child's behaviour in different ways. Read our guide to ADHD in children and how to support them.

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September 30 2022 10:00

“This is me, the way I want to be”

Blogs

One foster child shares a poem ‘This is Me’, published in a book about ‘Hopes and Dreams’, and showing the importance of a supportive family.

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Foster child from a different cultural background

September 28 2022 10:14

How to Support Children with a Different Cultural Background

Blogs

Foster children are usually matched with foster families of the same cultural background. However, on the rare occasion you are caring for a child of a different ethnicity or background to your own, here are 7 tips for supporting them.

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September 1 2022 8:00

Reasons for Fostering when your Children Leave Home

Blogs

Fostering at any stage of life can be extremely rewarding. Here are six reasons why having an empty nest at home could be the start of an exciting new chapter in foster care.

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August 25 2022 12:00

What is Post-18 Care? – Options for Leaving Foster Care at 18

Blogs

Most young people leave foster care at 18. Post-18 care is another option, and it helps ensure care leavers have a better chance at adult life.

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June 20 2022 8:00

Things to Consider when Wanting to Transfer Fostering Agency

Blogs

Reaching the decision that you're ready to transfer agencies can be a huge step. To help foster parents choose the right fostering agency for them, we've put together all the factors you'll want to consider before taking the leap.

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Positive Behaviour Strategies - reward chart

May 16 2022 12:00

10 Positive Behaviour Strategies in Foster Care

Blogs

It’s a good idea to learn some of the best strategies for dealing with challenging behaviour before you foster. Discover our top 10 positive behaviour management strategies for children in foster care.

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April 4 2022 9:00

Difference Between Short and Long Term Fostering

Blogs

When people decide to foster, they may choose between short and long term fostering. Learn what the difference is to make the right choice.

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Craig & Byron LGBTQ+ Foster Parents

September 29 2021 10:10

"Fostering is the best thing that I have ever done”

Case studies

Same-sex foster parents, Craig and Byron reflect upon their first year of fostering.

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Kenny And Brenda Foster Parent Story

September 24 2021 10:10

“I can’t imagine life without our children in it”

Case studies

Kenny and Brenda share their experience and advice as both fostering and adoptive parents over the past decade.

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Lisa And Andy on fostering siblings

June 18 2021 10:10

"It’s building that relationship between the brothers that we just love to see”

Case studies

Lisa and her husband, Andy, share their experience of completing the fostering assessment and welcoming brothers into their home in the middle of a global pandemic.

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June 18 2021 10:10

“Fostering is the most rewarding thing you will ever do"

Case studies

Foster parents, Lorraine and Robert share their fostering experience over the past decade, including their experience of keeping siblings together in foster care.

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June 18 2021 10:10

“Becoming a single foster parent was a life-changing experience”

Case studies

Hugh Wright, who has been fostering for nearly 12 years, shares his experience of becoming a single foster parent.

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June 8 2021 12:00

Child in care raises over £1,000 for children’s hospice

News

A young person in our care has raised over £1,000 for a children's hospice by cycling over 200km.

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Project Linus share handmade comfort blankets with foster children

May 20 2021 12:00

Project Linus Provides Comfort Blankets for Children in Care

News

Our Milton Keynes fostering team comes together with Project Linus to share handmade comfort blankets with children in care.

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March 31 2021 10:10

“The difference you can make to a child’s life is just truly immeasurable”

Case studies

Richard shares his experience as a single foster parent and caring for a vulnerable young person during a pandemic.

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March 1 2021 12:00

Keeping the Promise

News

Chrise Grundy Hoban, Head of Operations for Fosterplus Scotland, outlines her commitment to #KeepthePromise for the children and young people of Scotland.

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February 18 2021 10:10

“I just couldn't stop thinking to myself, ‘I want to help; I want to make a difference…’”

Case studies

Sarah and her husband, Steven, decided to embark on a new journey in fostering just over three years ago, after a lifetime of wanting to give children a brighter future.

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July 17 2020 9:00

Welcoming our first foster child

Case studies

Adi and Kelly started fostering in 2019 and have cared for a number of children in a short space of time. Today, they share their experience of welcoming their first child.

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June 25 2020 10:10

Lessons from a first time foster parent

Case studies

Taryn is a foster parent, who shares her experience of fostering and welcoming her first child into her home.

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May 22 2020 12:00

Mike and Rose

Case studies

Rose and Mike, foster parents based in Milton Keynes, have provided over 100 periods of vital care.

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May 22 2020 12:00

“There’s nothing like seeing the world through a child’s eyes”

Case studies

Theresa, a foster parent based in Gloucester, shares the magic of Christmas.

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April 7 2020 12:45

Celebrating Foster Parents Who Are Keeping Siblings Together

News

We are celebrating inspiring foster parents who are keeping siblings in care together.

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Who can become a Form F Assessor?

April 6 2020 9:00

Fostering Assessments with Fosterplus during social distancing

News

Read how Fosterplus are assessing new foster parents during the Covid-19 government restrictions.

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April 3 2020 12:00

“Fostering has given us the ability to become parents for the first time”

Case studies

Foster parents, Denise and her husband George share how they’ve been able to give children who have had a poor start in life, a better future.

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March 24 2020 9:30

Our Response to COVID-19

News

Read Fosterplus's response to Covid-19.

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December 20 2019 15:20

Fosterplus Donates Over 300 Items to Food Banks This Christmas

News

Read how Fosterplus have been collecting food to help those in need during the festive season.

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November 29 2019 9:50

Team MK Take On 12-Hour Cyclathon for Children In Need

News

Read about our 12-hour cyclathon challenge undertaken by Milton Keynes team to raise money for Children in Need.

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September 3 2019 12:00

Becoming a single foster mum: my fostering assessment

Case studies

Single mum, Nikki, shares her experience of being assessed to become a foster parent.

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April 29 2019 16:10

Fosterplus Ayr Recognised for Improving Health & Wellbeing of Workforce

News

Find out more about how our Ayr office has been recognised for helping to improve health and well-being of staff.

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March 28 2019 12:00

How to Support Children Already Living with you When Fostering

Blogs

If you're thinking of becoming a foster parent, read some great advice from our experienced foster carers on how to support children already living with you when fostering.

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March 28 2019 12:00

Things to do on the First Day with a Foster Child

Blogs

Our foster carers share advice for welcoming your first foster child and what to do on that first day.

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March 28 2019 12:00

How to Prepare for Your First Foster Child

Blogs

Foster carers share their advice and tips for welcoming your first foster child.

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February 5 2019 14:15

5 Tips to Keep Children Safe Online

News

Read our guidance on how to keep children safe online.

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January 25 2019 12:00

How to Get Your Child to Wear a Helmet

Blogs

Children's safety is so important so we've put together some easy tricks that you can try for getting your child to wear a helmet when out on their bike.

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January 23 2019 12:00

"We watched from the window and cried as they drove off"

Case studies

Suzanne shares her powerful story of fostering a young boy, who completely transformed in her care and preparing to say goodbye as he went on to be adopted by his forever family.

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December 24 2018 10:15

Food Bank Appeal Success

News

Read about how our teams at Fosterplus have been busy gathering food donations over the festive period to donate to food banks across the country.

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December 13 2018 12:00

How You Can Encourage Learning Over Christmas

Blogs

Take a look at our suggestions for fun, festive activities that encourage learning for children.

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December 6 2018 12:00

How You Can Help Your Child Deal with Frustration and Anger

Blogs

We share advice on supporting your child in managing their emotions, and dealing with feelings of anger and frustration.

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October 22 2018 12:00

A New Life In The UK - Senay’s Story

Case studies

Supervising Social Worker, Sue shares the story of a young boy in our care, who made the brave decision to leave his home country of Eritrea.

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October 11 2018 11:55

Edinburgh Has Been Fundraising

News

Read how our Fosterplus team in Edinburgh have been raising money for MacMillan Cancer Support.

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October 7 2018 14:45

Carers Shortlisted for Two Fostering Excellence Awards

News

Read about our Paisley foster carers who have been shortlisted for two Fostering Excellence Awards.

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September 26 2018 12:20

Fostering Better Outcomes

News

Read the Government Response to the ‘Independent Review into Fostering, Foster Care in England February 2018.

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September 14 2018 8:50

Trauma Teddies

News

The team at Fosterplus Edinburgh have been creating cute and colourful teddy bears which will be given to looked after children and those in traumatic situations.

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July 2 2018 12:00

Firefighter Shares Fire Prevention Tips at Carer Support Group

Blogs

It's important to be aware of fire safety, especially within the home. One of our foster parents who is a Firefighter shares their guidance on fire prevention in the home.

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June 19 2018 12:00

“We soon realised that they just wanted to be loved”

Case studies

Irene started fostering 6 years ago and shares some of her best memories as a foster carer.

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May 10 2018 10:50

Summer Kitchen Project Launch

News

Our Milton Keynes team have launched a brand new campaign to encourage children to grow and cook with their own fruit and vegetables.

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February 23 2018 16:05

We’re celebrating LGBT history month

News

We're dressing up for Purple Friday, to show our support of LGBT history month.

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December 7 2017 11:20

Fosterplus Help Raise £1,222 for BBC Children in Need!

News

Read how our teams at Fosterplus came together to raise an amazing £1,222 for Children in Need.

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January 4 2017 9:15

"My one regret? That I didn’t make that call 10 years earlier!"

Case studies

Originally a nurse, Elaine decided to retrain to be a foster parent. Since being approved, her only regret was that she didn't do it 10 years earlier!

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July 22 2016 12:00

A Day In The Life Of A Foster Carer

Case studies

Sandra and John have been fostering for two years and are caring for a 16-year-old girl called Katlyn. Today, they share a day in the life of a foster family.

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March 8 2016 13:45

Edinburgh Team at the Children’s Food Trust Course

News

Foster Carer Denise and Recruitment Officer Susan had a successful day at the Children’s Food Trust for their Children’s Food course.

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March 4 2016 12:00

Fostering on Mother’s Day

Blogs

Some of our carers share their stories on how they celebrate Mother's Day as a foster parent.

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January 29 2016 12:00

"They've been a welcome addition to our family"

Case studies

Starting out their fostering career caring for younger children, Heidi and Lee decided to take on caring for teenagers too and have loved the joy it brings.

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January 8 2016 12:00

How Hard Is It To Keep Siblings In Foster Care Together?

Blogs

We researched the statistics of siblings in foster care. Bloggers share their views on the findings.

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November 13 2015 12:00

Alan and Helen’s Fostering Journey

Case studies

Alan and Helen have cared for many children during their fostering career, including three unaccompanied teenagers on a long-term basis.

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November 10 2015 9:15

Foster Carer Achievement Event

News

Fosterplus celebrated the achievements of their foster carers in Long Eaton with a special awards lunch.

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October 21 2015 10:45

“It doesn’t take much”

Case studies

Yasmin, a birth daughter of one of our foster parents explains what it's like to be part of a family that fosters.

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October 5 2015 12:00

How does fostering affect my benefits?

Blogs

Learn more about how becoming a foster parent affects any benefits you may be claiming.

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July 9 2015 9:40

How Foster Care helped shape a Champion

News

Read David's story on how he not only became a Scottish and British Gymnastics Champion, but also competed on behalf of Great Britain and won over 10 gold and silver medals in international competitions.

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May 15 2015 17:00

Staying Put – Before and After legislation came into effect.

News

A look at the changes to legislation before the Staying Put Scheme was introduced and how this has affected young people.

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