Understanding Therapeutic Fostering: What It Is and Why It Matters 

Therapeutic fostering is a specialist form of foster care that provides extra support for children who have experienced significant trauma, neglect, or emotional challenges. These children may struggle with trust, attachment, or regulation – and they need foster carers who are trained and supported to help them heal. 

What makes therapeutic fostering different? 

Unlike general fostering, therapeutic fostering comes with enhanced training and ongoing professional support. At Beacon, this means: 

• 24/7 access to therapeutic advice 

• Monthly reflective supervision with a specialist team 

• Intervention and access to therapy for the child or young person – for example, art or drama therapy 

• Training in trauma-informed care and emotional regulation techniques 

• An increased fostering payment reflecting the additional support levels 

Carers are never expected to “fix” a child. Instead, they create safe, consistent environments where healing can begin at the child’s pace. 

Who can become a therapeutic foster carer? 

You don’t need a background in mental health or social work. Many of our therapeutic carers come from teaching, healthcare, or completely unrelated fields – they’re people with empathy, resilience, and the ability to reflect. 

If you’re naturally patient, curious about child development, and open to learning new strategies, this might be the perfect fostering path for you. 

What do children in therapeutic care need most? 

• Consistency: Predictable routines and boundaries build trust 

• Validation: Acknowledging feelings without judgment 

• Time: Progress can be slow, but meaningful 

Why it matters 

Therapeutic fostering can be life-changing. Children who’ve been through instability often need just one reliable adult to change their trajectory. With the right support system – like the one Beacon provides – you can be that person. 

Curious about therapeutic fostering? Speak with our team to learn more about the training and support available. 

Contact us if you’re interested in fostering