How to Become a Respite Foster Carer?
Did you know that you can help a child in need without committing to full-time foster care? Learn how easy it is to become a respite foster carer and provide valuable breaks to other foster carers.
What is respite foster care?
This is a type of foster care that requires you to step in and care for a child for a short time, probably a weekend or just a few days. The idea is to allow foster families to take a short break.
As a respite foster carer, you will only be responsible for a child for a few days, thus, you don’t have to worry about full-time commitments.
Does it sound like something you would want to do?
Let’s take a look at the requirements and how to get started as a respite foster carer.
Requirements to become a respite foster carer
- You must be at least 21 years old
- You must be living in a home that has an extra room to accommodate a child or a young person
- You must be financially stable to care for a child or a young person
- You must pass the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check
The same requirements needed for a foster carer are the same ones used to qualify a respite foster carer.
Is there special training for a respite foster carer?
No, you don’t need special training to become a respite foster carer. However, since you will be registered as a foster carer, you will undertake the expected training for a foster carer. In addition, you will receive continuous support and materials that will enhance your fostering skills.
Getting started as a respite foster carer
There are three reasons why you need to get started as a respite foster carer i.e.
- You will provide relief to a full-time foster family
- You will make a difference in a child’s life even though you are only caring for them for a short time
- You will give a child the opportunity to create a positive relationship with an adult.
If this is something that you can do, then let us know today. We can help you to become a respite foster carer and feel the joy of caring for children in need.
