What is it about?
There is a shortfall of foster carers currently in England as the number of children in care is rising faster than the number of foster carers. Supporting foster carers in their role of providing safe nurturing environments for children in the looked after system is crucial in ensuring their recruitment and retention. This article reports on an evaluation of a national fostering helpline, Fosterline England, which provides independent, impartial advice to carers on a range of concerns. Findings suggest that the provision of a helpline service can influence foster carers’ motivation to enter or stay in fostering. However, it is only one factor that can make a difference. Improvements to working practices in fostering are needed, including more effective communication with and between professionals.
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Why is it important?
The research adds to the body of knowledge about the important role of foster carers in children's long term outcomes and relationships between social work professionals and foster carers. It also adds to the body of evidence about the usefulness of an independent support organisation such as Fosterline and the effectiveness of helplines.
Perspectives
The findings from this article suggest that improved relationships between foster carers and social workers and better working conditions for foster carers would improve recruitment and retention. The provision of the Helpline (Fosterline) is important part of this.
Dr Carolyn C Blackburn
Birmingham City University
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: The role of a national fostering helpline in the recruitment and retention of foster carers: implications for policy and fostering practice, Adoption & Fostering, July 2016, SAGE Publications,
DOI: 10.1177/0308575916640227.
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