Parents: What to Expect

Welcome parents. We’re so glad you’re here. Starting this journey can feel like a big step, and it’s completely normal to feel a mix of emotions. You’re not alone - we’re here to support you every step of the way.

What to Expect

You should expect a safe and supportive home. One that is structured to help you care for your child confidently and safely.

You’ll be living in a foster carer’s home with your child and the foster carer is there to make sure that both you and your child feel safe and supported. You’ll have your own room with your baby (unless agreed otherwise), you’ll make your own choices in terms of what and when you eat and whether you eat with your foster carer, and you’ll have access to broadband internet so you can stay connected.

The foster carer will be there to offer you guidance but not take over your parenting unless absolutely necessary for the child’s safety.

You, as the parent, will still be responsible for your child’s day-to-day care unless you, your foster carer and your social worker have agreed on a different plan. You’ll be expected to take care of things such as:

  • Keeping your baby safe
  • Feeding your child
  • Bathing and dressing them
  • Washing their clothes
  • Making sure they have the clothing, toys and equipment they need
  • Attending medical appointments and meetings

Another really important job for your foster carer is to observe and support you, and they may need to share what they see with your social worker. This is so you can get the best support you need, especially if there are certain tasks you find more challenging than others. They are not there to judge you, but what they see will form part of your parenting assessment.

It’s normal to feel nervous or overwhelmed, and your foster carer and social work team will be there to offer reassurance or practical help. They can give advice on childcare and routines and, perhaps most importantly, will encourage and celebrate your success.

Support for Parents

We believe that every parent should have the right support to thrive and care for their child with confidence, where it is safe to do so. That’s why we offer a range of practical and emotional support services during your placement:

Health and Early Years Services

We’ll help you register with local health services and early years providers, and make sure you can access the care and resources your child needs.

Ask Jan Membership – Extra Support for Parents

As part of our commitment to supporting the well-being of everyone involved in fostering, we offer an AskJan Membership to parents in our care. This comprehensive support package provides access to expert help and valuable resources whenever you need them.

Your membership includes:

  • 24/7 Access to a Mental Health Professional – Speak to a qualified mental health expert any time, day or night, for immediate support and guidance.
  • 8 Sessions of Counselling (subject to an initial assessment) – Professional, confidential counselling sessions to help you manage stress, anxiety, or any personal challenges.
  • Wellbeing Information and Support – A wide range of resources to promote emotional, physical, and mental wellbeing.
  • Financial Advice – Expert guidance on budgeting, debt management, and financial planning to help you stay on top of your finances.
  • Legal Advice Helpline – Access to legal experts for confidential advice on a variety of issues.
  • Life Coaching – Support to help you set goals, overcome challenges, and achieve your personal and professional ambitions.
  • Rewards Platform – Enjoy exclusive discounts and offers on high street and national brands.
  • E-Birthday Card – A small but thoughtful gesture to celebrate your special day.
Rights

Feeling respected and valued as a parent is of utmost importance and while with a foster placement, you have the right to:

  • Be treated with dignity and respect
  • Have your views listened to and taken seriously
  • Be given privacy when appropriate
  • Be supported with your cultural, religious, and personal needs
  • Receive clear information about decisions being made about you and your baby
  • Make a complaint if you are unhappy

Your Voice Matters

This time in your life can leave you having some complicated thoughts and feelings, so we want you to know that your opinion and thoughts are important to us. If there are any meetings about your child, you will always be invited and you can bring someone to support you and help you to share your views.

Our Commitment

At Rees Parent and Child Fostering, we understand that this is an important time for you and your baby, and we’re here to walk alongside you every step of the way.

We want you to feel safe, respected and cared for while you’re with us. Your baby’s safety is always our number one priority, and we’re just as committed to your wellbeing too.

Our role is to support and encourage you – not to judge or take over – so you can feel confident in your parenting. Our carers are specially trained in child development, mental health and family relationships, so you can trust that the support you receive is both expert and kind.

We keep clear, neutral records of your progress to give a fair and accurate picture, and we’ll work closely with other professionals, like social workers and health visitors, to make sure you and your baby have everything you need.

Most importantly, we believe in you and your ability to succeed as a parent. Our goal is to help you feel strong, capable, and ready to give your child the very best start in life.

Enquire About Fostering