Types Of Fostering

There are many different types of fostering to suit the varied and sometimes complex needs of the children in our care.
Some foster carers offer occasional care, perhaps looking after a single child for one weekend a month to support a full-time foster carer, while others may foster siblings on a long-term basis.

Mainstream

Foster care for children of all ages, from birth to16 years, and sometimes older

High Need

Long-term foster care for Somerset’s most complex children, often aged between 12 – 15 years

Stepping Stones

Supported lodgings for 16 to 21 year old care leavers learning to live independently

Parent & Child

Support and care for a single parent, or two parents, and his/her young baby in your home

Short Stays

Occasional care for a child who may already be living with a local foster family.

Link Carers

Foster care that offers flexibility, supporting a child in or leaving residential care

Asylum Seeking Children

Text under tile: Providing foster homes for Unaccompanied Asylum Seeking Children

Short Break Care

Specialist support scheme offering occasional care for a child with disabilities.

Remand Fostering

Specialist care for children that are on remand, in custody, or facing criminal prosecution

Emergency Care

Children who need to be placed in foster care at short notice

Kinship

Care of a child you are related to, or have a connection with already.

Private Fostering

A private arrangement you have to care for a child who is not a close relative.