Questions about support and training

What support will I get during the assessment process?

Our job at Foster with North East is to support you through the assessment process which we know at times can feel intense. We will work with you so that you know what to expect, when and are kept up to date as much as possible. 

Our hub social workers will take you through pre-approval training, which will give you the skills and knowledge you need to foster. 

Once your application is passed on to your chosen local authority they will become your point of contact and you will be assigned an assessing social worker. But, the Foster with North East hub advisers will continue to support you on your journey, checking in with phone calls, answering your questions and explaining how different parts of the process will progress. 

What support is available to foster carers once approved?

Your pre-approval Skills to Foster Training and the guidance you will receive is just the start of your fostering journey and the support available to you. Foster carers across the region can access core elements of fostering support alongside additional partner local authority specific support. This includes:

• A buddy mentor scheme which links new foster carers to experienced foster carers in their area for knowledge sharing and support.
• Regular fostering support groups in your local area where you can socialise with other fostering families and gain peer support.
• Invites to regular training where you can develop your skills and build relationships with foster carers and professionals.
• A named allocated social worker, who will visit you regularly, providing supervision, advice and signposting to training and additional help. 
• A 24/7 duty service with social workers to provide help and advice for any emergency issues.
• Our Foster Care Support Line, which you can access outside of hours for additional help and support.
• A programme of events and activities in your area and the region to allow fostering families to meet, socialise and support one another.

What fostering training is available?

Your initial foster training and preparation course will help you discover what life as a foster carer is like. The course is designed to equip you with the skills, knowledge and understanding you'll need to start fostering. You will get a good idea of whether foster care is the right role for you and your family. There is also the chance to meet other foster care applicants and make friendships. 

The 12 partners within Foster with North East provide ongoing development for foster carers. Fostering training programmes include a mix of online and in-person workshops. We understand that flexibility can really help foster carers to dedicate time to development so training is delivered at a range of times.

Local authorities plan and deliver ongoing training on relevant topics and emerging issues, such as:

• Looking after children who have suffered adverse childhood trauma such as abuse, neglect, separation and loss.
• Support to complete the national Training, Support and Development Standard (TSDS) programme in your first year. 
• Additional optional training for specialist fostering such as parent and child fostering or caring for children with disabilities.