Who makes a good foster parent?

On this page you will find information about the qualities we look for in prospective foster carers.

We are looking for people who have the following qualities:

  • time, patience and resilience to thoroughly meet the needs of a looked after child
  • are empathetic and non-judgemental about the child, their background, and their family
  • a positive attitude to diversity and difference
  • can provide day-to-day care for children or young people placed in their care, with particular regard for the needs of being separated from their families
  • are flexible in handling a wide range of difficult and demanding situations that may occur
  • 'stickability'
  • good communication skills
  • ability to advocate on behalf of those in your care in professional meetings, for example, at school or college
  • ability to meet the social, physical, intellectual, cultural, emotional and social needs of the child or young person in your care
  • ability to work in partnership with birth families and other professionals
  • ability to give praise, encouragement, rewards and enhance the child or young person's self esteem
  • appropriate child care knowledge and skills
  • ability to be a positive role model
  • resourcefulness and ability to seek support
  • ability to learn from experience and training.