Fostering is about providing care and support for children or young people who can no longer live with their birth parents due to various reasons, such as challenging behaviors, life difficulties for the parents, or other safeguarding concerns. These children are placed with approved fostering families for temporary or long-term care. Beacon Fostering offers extensive foster carer support, specialist training, and commitment to new and existing foster carers. As of March 31, 2023, over 83,000 children and young persons were in care, with 68% supported by fostering families. Fostering is often the preferred care option, providing a safe, secure, and child-friendly environment that fosters love, achievement, and positive outcomes through the dedicated efforts of families and professionals.
The fostering process begins when a child's needs or reasons for care are identified and shared with professionals. Local authorities responsible for the child, partner with independent fostering agencies like Beacon Fostering to ensure the best match and ongoing support. Recognising each child's individual needs is crucial for their development and well-being. The length of placement varies based on the child's needs, care options, and overall placement stability. Prospective foster carers start their journey by learning about fostering and contacting Beacon Fostering for more information. The assessment process, coupled with excellent training, empowers foster carers, providing them with the confidence and skills needed to make a real difference in the lives of children and young persons. The agency has local offices in Preston and Manchester, supporting carers locally here and in Blackpool, Liverpool, Lancashire, Stockport, Bury and Oldham.