Why Foster with an IFA

Hi all,

The children have all gone back to school just as the dreadful weather kicks in. Julian went off to school quite happily today, full of excitement of a new class, friends and helpers.

One of the most frequently asked questions I am asked as an agency foster carer is ‘why don’t you foster for the local authority”’. Well, here goes...

Firstly, I am full of respect for all foster carers, it is not an easy job, and it has peaks and troughs like any other job but here are the reasons I work for an agency.

1. Agencies tend to be small organisations that have that ‘family feel’.
2. Specialisms.
3. Excellent matching process with no pressure to take the child if you are unsure in any way.
4. 100% commitment from the whole team at the agency to support you when needed and to also celebrate achievements of the children and carers.
5. Expert training from professionals sourced to suit the needs of the carers.
6. Online training.
7. Access to a team of psychologists.
8. Visits every two weeks from your supervising social worker.
9. 24 hours on call service provided by the whole team.
10. Fantastic days out and competitions held regularly for the children.
11. Social/networking sessions held regularly for the carers.
12. ‘Open door’ policy from the management team.
13. Other opportunities such as helping with day support, respite and recruitment.
14. Reviewed annually.
15. A consistent approach from the whole team.
16. Fair pay and benefits.
17. Always willing to listen and adaptions made, if needed.

The list could go on, but these are the salient points. Calon Cymru as a fostering agency provide all the above and much more. I feel safe, and that is very important as a foster carer because if you are not safe and happy in what you do, it could impact on the child or children you are caring for.

So, as we approach our annual review, we would just like to say, ‘thank you Calon Cymru, here’s to the next year’.

Take care for now

Daisy Doo and Julian too xx