The impacts of entering the care system

Entering foster care can be life changing for children and young people who cannot live with their families of origin.

They may be feeling displaced, without a sense of identity or belonging, and may even have trust issues when starting to live with strangers in a new family.

Beacon Fostering aims to support children entering the care system and cope with the psychological and social effects. Here’s what you need to know about the effects of entering care on a child’s sense of self and wellbeing.

Identity

A child’s identity formation is crucial in their understanding of their sense of self, and entering foster care means they can lose their sense of belonging, as well as question their family and where they fit in.

Acknowledging and supporting their likes, interests and culture will validate a child’s feelings and assure them that they are loved and have somewhere where they feel understood.

Stability and trust issues

Some children move from foster home to foster home, or have lived in residential care settings.

This lack of stability in their living conditions can lead to them feeling that they do not belong anywhere and that they cannot rely on others. They may either shut themselves off from others or develop a fear of abandonment.

Those who have experienced severe neglect, mistreatment and/or abandonment are affected in that they do not have the opportunity to thrive, and their social functioning is impaired, which can lead to mental health problems developing.

At Beacon Fostering, we provide an inclusive and supportive network to help foster children feel a sense of belonging. Reach out today to find out how we can help.