Support For Foster Carers

Fostering is one of the most fulfilling things you can do — but it also comes with challenges. Having the right support makes all the difference. At Match Foster Care, we believe that when carers feel supported, children thrive. That’s why we provide professional guidance, emotional reassurance, and practical help from the moment you join our community.

Whether you’re facing a difficult day or celebrating a milestone, our team is always here to listen, guide, and empower you. You’ll never feel like you’re on your own — because fostering is truly a partnership.

What support do foster carers receive?

You’ll receive continuous support from a dedicated supervising social worker, as well as access to 24-hour advice, peer support groups, and specialist resources. We are different from most providers in that you will never be asked to login to a portal to complete daily or weekly logs about the children you care for, this is done by your supervising social worker.  We employ our own Registered Nurse, Education Lead, Therapeutic Practitioner and support workers, who all work exclusively across our agency for the children in our care.  From the first foster placement to ongoing development, we’ll make sure you always have someone to turn to.

Who can I contact if I need help?

Your Supervising Social Worker is your main point of contact and is always ready to offer advice or practical support. You’ll also have access to the wider Match Foster Care team — a group of professionals who understand fostering and can help with any issue that arises.

Do I have my own Supervising Social Worker?

Yes. Every foster carer has a dedicated Supervising Social Worker who provides regular visits, guidance, and support. They’ll work closely with you to monitor progress, help you reflect on your experiences, and ensure you have everything you need to succeed in your role.

Is 24/7 support available?

Absolutely. We offer a 24-hour on-call service for all carers. No matter what time of day or night, if you need advice, reassurance, or immediate help, someone from our team will be there to answer the phone and support you.

What is respite care and how does it help?

Respite care offers short, planned breaks for foster carers. It allows you time to rest and recharge while ensuring the child continues to receive consistent, high-quality care from another approved carer. Respite is an important part of maintaining balance and wellbeing for both carers and children.

Are there foster carer support groups?

Yes. Match Foster Care runs regular support groups where carers can share experiences, swap advice, and connect with others who understand fostering life. These sessions build confidence and create a strong sense of community among our carers.

Is counselling or emotional support available?

We understand that fostering can be emotionally demanding. If you ever feel that you’d benefit from professional counselling or therapeutic support, we can help arrange it. Your wellbeing matters — because when carers are emotionally healthy, children feel more secure too.

What happens if I need help during a placement?

If you ever face a challenge, our team responds quickly. Whether it’s a behavioural issue, communication difficulty, or concern about a child’s progress, we’ll work with you to find practical solutions. You’re never left to manage problems on your own.

How does Match Foster Care support its carers long-term?

Our support doesn’t stop after approval. We stay connected through home visits, phone calls, training sessions, and social events. You’ll always have access to professional guidance, opportunities to grow, and a network that celebrates your achievements as a carer.

What makes Match Foster Care’s support different?

We’re a close-knit, independent fostering agency that values personal relationships. You’re not just a number to us — you’re part of a team that genuinely cares. Our approach combines professional expertise with compassion, ensuring that every carer feels valued, respected, and understood.

You're Never Alone With
Match Foster Care

At Match Foster Care, our promise is simple — we’ll be there for you every step of the way. Whether you’re seeking advice, reassurance, or training, you’ll always have a trusted team behind you. Together, we make sure every child in care receives the stability and love they deserve.

In our last section of our Ultimate Guide, we covered Foserting Allowance & Payments. So next we will discover how training and development help you grow as a foster carer and strengthen your confidence in supporting children through every stage of life.