What is a Parent and Child Placement?

Parent and child foster care is a unique type of fostering where a parent (usually a mother) and baby comes to stay with you at a time when they need extra support.

There is also the possibility the parent could be a father and sometimes you may end up looking after both (mother and father). If the parent is an adult it’s only the child who is looked after. However, if the parent is under 18 both will be looked after.

So what circumstances does a parent find themselves in to seek parent and child fostering support? Some parents may have learning difficulties or be young parents who are struggling to parent appropriately.

Why are parent and child placements needed?

Rather than referring struggling parents to residential units to have their parenting capacity assessed, a foster home is a great alternative. In some cases parents have been in the care system and have experienced adversity. Therefore going into foster care gives parents the chance to be in a more relaxed home environment.

Types of parent and child fostering

• Assessment placements: An assessment placement usually last for last around 12 weeks and involves completing an assessment report of the parent’s ability to care for their child.
• Pre-birth placements: Helping to prepare the parent for the birth of their child by supporting them to understand their own needs and the needs of their baby.
• Parenting support placements: This is offered to parents who need help with learning how to provide basic care and guidance for their child. This type of placement can also be offered if the parent needs a safe place to live.

Support for you

Fostering can be challenging as well as rewarding. To help you, you will receive specialist training and support from Progress throughout your time as a foster carer. The training covers everything relating to caring for, assessing and safeguarding a young family. It includes:

• Learning how parents form relationships with their children
• How to assess their parenting skills
• How to support a parent with a learning disability

You will also receive frequent visits from your dedicated social worker and have the option of therapy to help you. Progress provides out of hours support so you are never left on your own. As an agency we are committed to provide 24/7 support.

Want to become a parent and child foster carer? Click here to learn how you can change a child’s life.

If you would like to talk to us call 01902 561066 or email fostering@progresscare.co.uk and a member of our team will be happy to help.