Shortage of Foster Carers for Perth Kids – A Special Report
We have seen a decline in the number of foster carers based in Perth and the surrounding suburbs, with a number of children still waiting for essential placement.
This is seen as a result of the misconceptions surrounding foster care that too often create barriers for prospective foster carers and their families.
From Perth to Wanaroo, to Duncraig, these children are eagerly awaiting placement with dedicated carers to help build their new lives.
Is Foster Care for me?
It’s important to dispel the myths surrounding foster care to allow prospective new parents the opportunity to become foster carers. The following includes common beliefs for eligibility:
- We must be married.
- I need a good income.
- We are not same-sex parents
- I’m currently unemployed.
When you apply to become a foster carer, you will need to demonstrate that you and your partner are able to provide a safe and stable home.
We recommend you speak with an experienced case-worker who can clarify all aspects of eligibility and assist you in taking the next step.
What is Foster Care?
The aim of foster care, is to provide a safe a stable home for a child who can no longer live at home. In the majority of cases, it is to reunite the children with their own families, although sometimes this is not a possibility. When this is the case, alternate options for permanent placement are explored.
Types of Foster Care
Typically there are five types of foster care which include:
Kinship Care – Kinship care is provided by a person who is a relative, considered to be family or a close friend, or is a member of the child or young person’s community.
Short Term Placement – Short-term carers are full-time foster and kinship carers who provide ongoing, day-to-day care for children for up to two years, where the Department is working towards reunifying the child with their family.
Long Term Placement – Involves caring for children until they reach adulthood (usually 18 years) and are ready to live independently.
Emergency Placement – Emergency carers are carers who are available to provide short-term care at short notice for children who need a place to stay on an urgent basis.
Respite Care – Just as families need support or time-out on a regular basis or to deal with a serious personal matter, there are times when foster and kinship carers need a break.
What can I expect?
Following your submission of an expression of interest, you may be invited to attend an information session in your local area.
You will also be asked to participate in the following:
- A household safety study
- Completing the application for approval form
- Applying for a blue card, (or validating your existing blue card)
- Completing a health and well-being questionnaire
- Participating in interviews
- Completing initial training sessions.
Want to know more?
If you would like more information on how to Foster a child, contact Foundations Care for expert advice and assistance.