Caryn Onions Group
Foster carers look after distressed children and teenagers. Although they receive training, they often do not have direct support when they need it most, when their child is really struggling and difficult to care for. This research suggests that in addition to training, foster carers are likely to benefit from regular ongoing reflective peer support and supervision.
There is a UK shortage of foster carers and many feel isolated and unsupported. Providing foster carers with regular reflective supervision would help them during difficult times and help stabilise vulnerable placements. This is important as changes in placement can be detrimental to children and teenagers.
An embedded culture of reflective practice is a powerful way to enable therapeutic carers to manage the intense feelings evoked by looking after distressed children and adolescents. If this was regularly available to all foster carers then fewer placements would break down and foster homes could care for these needy children and young people in home settings.
Foster carers are more likely to help children and teenagers when the going gets tough if they themselves are fully supported using reflective practice.
Poster at Woodbrooke Conference, Birmingham 2019
