Parent and Child fostering

What is Parent and Child fostering?

Parent and Child fostering is when a parent (usually with a baby or toddler) lives with you in your home. The goal is to give the parent guidance and support while keeping their child safe. This often happen when there are concerns about parenting skills or circumstances, but the aim is to help the parent succeed.

Sometimes a parent needs extra support to care for their baby or young child. Parent and child fostering gives them a safe home and the chance to learn and grow together. As a foster carer, you’ll play a vital role in helping a family stay together whenever possible.

Your role as a foster carer

a foster carer supporting a young mother with her baby

Provide a safe, welcoming home for both the parent and child.
Offer practical help and guidance – things like feeding, routines, and baby care.
Observe and record how the parent cares for their child (social workers use this for assessments).
Work as part of a team with social workers and other professionals.
Be patient and understanding – living in someone else’s home while being assessed can feel stressful.

Key things to remember

The parent is still responsible for their child – you’re there to guide, not take over.
Clear boundaries and good communication make everything easier.
Parent and Child fostering can feel intense, so lean on your fostering team for help.
Your support can make a life-changing difference for both parent and child.

Extra support available

To help you support the parent and child in your care, your local council will provide:

A supervising social worker for advice and support.
Training on infant care, safeguarding and observation skills.
Access to healthcare, interpreters, and specialist services if needed.
Peer support and respite options.

If you’re interested in fostering a parent and child, get in touch via the form below – we’ll answer your questions and guide you through the process.

To find out about how your Council supports foster carers, click the logos below

We’re the choice for people from all backgrounds—single, coupled up, LGBTQ+, renting, or owning—who want to open their hearts and homes to local children and become part of a loved local community.

Fill out this short form and one of our team will reach out for an open and honest chat. Or feel free to call us on 020 8496 3437 or email hello@localcommunityfostering.co.uk.

You’re more ready than you think.

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