Foster Carer

Job description

Description

What if you're exactly what a child needs?

Allowance: Up to £610.04 per week per child, plus tax exemptions and additional allowances where applicable

Location: Home-based, Surrey-wide

Every child is different. Every child needs something different.

Some need stability. Some need patience. Some need encouragement to believe in themselves. Others simply need someone who will be there, day after day.

The skills that make a great foster carer do not always come from professional experience. They often come from everyday life, raising children, supporting family members, helping others through difficult times, or simply being someone who listens and cares.

There are more than 900 children in care in Surrey, and many need foster carers who can provide a safe, supportive and nurturing home. By becoming a foster carer, you can make a lasting difference to a child's future while receiving ongoing training, professional support and a fostering allowance.

What does a foster carer do?

• Supporting children with school, hobbies and routines
• Providing emotional support and stability
• Attending meetings and appointments
• Helping children maintain important relationships
• Advocating for a child's needs and future
• Celebrating everyday achievements and milestones

Why foster with Surrey County Council?

• An experienced foster carer buddy
• Dedicated support from your own supervising social worker
• A comprehensive training and development programme
• 24-hour support
• Support groups and local foster carer networks
• Membership of The Fostering Network
• Participation in the Mockingbird Family Model
• Opportunities to gain recognised qualifications
• Generous fostering allowances

You do not need to own your home, be married, have your own children or have previous fostering experience.

You will need some space in your home, resilience, patience and understanding, and the ability to build positive relationships with children and young people.

If you're interested in becoming a foster carer in Surrey, take the Surrey fostering quiz ( Could I foster - Introduction - Surrey County Council ) or call 01372832929 (Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm) for an informal conversation with our friendly team.