There is a national shortage of foster families across the country and Calderdale is no exception. We need foster carers for:
- children and young people aged from 0 to 18 years;
- sibling groups;
- and unaccompanied asylum-seeking children.
Each young person needs a different type of care based on their circumstances and individual needs.
We know our foster carers need to be able to choose the type of fostering that is right for them. During the assessment process, we will work with you to find which type suits you.
You will have full training, support and guidance, no matter what you choose. You will also get generous payments and allowances to help you provide a caring, loving and supportive home.
Types of fostering
Short-term
Foster carers open their hearts and homes to children and young people during a time of uncertainty. They offer comfort, care and stability while decisions are made about their long-term care plan. It is a vital role that helps bridge the gap, to make sure every child feels safe, supported and valued.
You will:
- be there to meet the child's emotional, physical and developmental needs;
- and provide a nurturing environment in the midst of change.
Placements can last from a few weeks to a couple of years. It will depend on each child's unique circumstances.
Long-term
This provides more than just a home. Carers offer stability and a sense of belonging to those who are unable to live with their birth families permanently. Long term foster carers care for children until they are ready to take their next steps into independence. This gives them the chance to grow and thrive in a safe, nurturing environment.
While Calderdale Council and birth parents retain legal parental responsibility, you become the caring presence in the child's daily life. You offer guidance, emotional support and a place to call home.
It is about building lasting relationships, creating cherished memories and helping a young person feel truly valued. It is a journey filled with challenges, but also incredible rewards and the chance to make a lifelong difference.
Emergency Duty Carers
Here carers play a vital role as they support children during moments of crisis. This is usually required when a child is unable to remain safely with their parent or usual caregiver.
In these urgent situations, you open your home outside normal hours to provide a safe environment. You offer a child comfort, stability and reassurance when it is needed most.
This care is temporary and bridges the gap until a longer-term carer is available.
Support Care
This is short-term care for children and young people when a little extra help is needed. This type of care supports full-time foster carers to rest and recharge or handle personal matters.
Whether it is for a few days or a couple of weeks, a short break can have a transformative impact.
It is a flexible and rewarding role that helps keep stability and emotional wellbeing for the whole fostering family.
Shorts breaks scheme
This gives disabled children or young people the chance to stay with a family for a short time.
It lets them get involved in daily family activities.
Typically, you would offer care from one night per week to a weekend per month.
