Short-term
Short-term placements take place for a number of reasons, and can last from a few days to several months. It could be for a short period while a family issue is resolved, or for a longer time through court proceedings. Fostering a child for a short period can be working towards a return to their home or if this is not possible, helping them move to a permanent placement within Wakefield or to adoption.
Long-term/Permanent
When a child’s needs would be best met in a foster placement, a long-term/permanent agreement is put into place and the foster carer commits to looking after a child through to adulthood.
Children and young people may stay in touch with their birth family but the foster carer will take full responsibility for their upbringing.
Respite
Respite care usually takes place at weekends or holiday times and involves caring for children on a regular, part-time basis. The children and young people will either live with their birth family or other foster carers.
Parent and Child Placements
A small number of carers offer placements to young people during pregnancy and after the birth of the baby. The carers offer help and advice with parenting skills and assess a young parent’s ability to care safely for the child.
Connect Carers
Connect Care is one of a range of short-break services available to families caring for a disabled child in the Wakefield District. It links children to a carer who is able to provide them with an enjoyable break in a safe, family-based environment. These breaks can last anything from a few hours to a few days. Connect Carers offer vital support to full-time carers and the breaks provide children with new experiences, and allow families to take a well-earned rest from their responsibilities.
