Frequently Asked Questions
Long-term fostering is when a child is placed with a foster family until they reach adulthood, usually around the age of 18. This type of fostering is for children who cannot return to their birth families and need a stable, loving home for the long term.
In adoption, full parental responsibility is transferred to the adoptive parents, and the child legally becomes part of the adoptive family. In long-term fostering, the foster carer provides day-to-day care and support, but parental responsibility remains with the local authority. This allows children to maintain connections with their birth families if appropriate, while still receiving the stability of a long-term home.
The fostering process, from initial enquiry to approval, typically will take four to six months. This includes assessments, training, and the matching process. At Match Foster Care, we ensure that our foster carers are fully prepared and supported throughout this process.
Foster carers receive a weekly allowance to help cover the costs of caring for a child. The amount varies depending on the child’s needs, the carer’s experience, and the fostering agency.
While short-term fostering provides temporary care for children, often during emergency situations, long-term fostering offers a stable home for children who need care until adulthood. The consistency of long-term fostering allows for deeper relationships to form and provides children with the stability they need to develop emotionally and academically.
At Match Foster Care, we carefully assess both the child’s needs and the foster carer’s strengths to ensure a successful match. The long-term fostering matching process involves detailed assessments and discussions to ensure that the child and carer are compatible, creating a stable, supportive environment for the child.
If you’re ready to start your fostering journey or simply want to learn more, get in touch with us at Match Foster Care today. We’re here to help you every step of the way.
