Fostering friendly businesses – what you need to know

If you are considering fostering, or are already a foster carer, you might be wondering if it is possible to have a job and foster children at the same time.

You will be pleased to hear that it is possible to work, or continue working, in addition to being a foster parent. However, while there are some things you should consider in advance, there is more awareness of fostering among employers, who ensure that workers who also foster are accommodated accordingly.

Here’s what you need to know from us at Beacon Fostering about fostering as an employee.

The benefits of recruiting foster carers who have existing careers

Depending on the professional backgrounds of people who are, or apply to be, foster carers, they may have relevant or transferable skills that can help them carry out this role and help children in need. For instance, one study found that almost 25% of foster carers previously worked in the health and social care sector, which involves showing compassion and caring for others.

How businesses can accommodate workers

The Department for Education produced a set of guidelines for employers who have foster carers in their workforce. Many carers have reported that they had to give up their jobs in order to foster, either due to company policies or the practicalities of managing last minute arrangements with work commitments.

The guidelines have information on flexible working and helping companies to understand the needs of foster carers.

Mental health is also a consideration – employees can provide counsellors to help foster parents through the most challenging parts of looking after children in foster care.