Siblings in foster care – keeping children together
When children come into care, this is a challenging time and can be difficult for many. This is why the family bonds that siblings have together are so important. They can be a really strong focus of trust, love and well being together.
If the children are young, the sibling connection could also be the single point of a loving relationship so far.
Siblings can be separated when coming into care – why?
This can be made for difficult reasons and these include:
· Children being different ages within the sibling group and therefore the youngest or younger children may be placed for adoption
· There may not be a large enough fostering home to keep large sibling groups together
· The behaviour may be very challenging for one sibling
· It could be decided that this is the best care plan overall based on an assessment of needs, outcomes and safeguarding considerations
Importance of being together
For siblings in care, they are often having to manage and balance their relationships with their foster carers, birth families and also with professionals.
There is research from the Children’s Commissioner that shows the importance from “The Family Review”. The protective effect from siblings being together is benefitted through four key areas:
· Emotional connections – with a focus on joy and love
· Importance of experiences that have been shared
· Support to one another that is mutual
· The ongoing positive nature from relationships
These areas are not always recognised enough through care planning. The development of relationships together is nurturing and important for the positive outcomes for siblings.
The current estimates from the Children’s Commissioner estimates that 37% of siblings are separated. Beacon Fostering is committed to helping here and looking to promote foster carers being approved to support siblings. This is of course dependent on your spare room(s) in the fostering home, support and your approval terms.
The local shortage of foster carers across Preston, Lancashire, Blackpool, Manchester and Liverpool would include placements for sibling groups together.
Are you interested in fostering with us? Follow the link below