We are here for you

Moving away from what you’ve always known as home, as well as your family and friends, can be very challenging. We want you to know that however you feel about being taken into foster care is ok! It’s normal to feel scared, angry or even relieved. Fusion Fostering are here for you.

You may feel confused about why you have been taken into care, this is okay. Fostering is intended to provide you with a safe, comfortable home when your family may not be able to provide it. This can be for a few days or more long-term depending on your circumstances. Foster carers will provide for you as if your own family, you may be a single placement or you may be living with other foster children and young people. Each case is different.

We want to make sure that every child or young person feels looked after and safe. If you have any questions about your situation, don’t be afraid to ask. Your social worker will explain everything to you and ensure you are aware of any decisions made regarding your care.

How long will I be in foster care?

This depends on your individual needs. No two situations are the same and there is no simple answer! Our goal is always to unite families as soon as possible, if this is a feasible option. Sometimes children come into care voluntarily, perhaps parents may have fallen ill and are struggling to provide care, or they may have financial issues. This type of foster care can often be temporary. In more serious cases, the time spent in care may be longer. Ultimately, this is to keep you safe and looked after!

Can I still see my family?

It is normal to miss your family, we will do all we can to help you keep in contact, if possible. Your social worker will help to make arrangements for you to meet your family in a safe place. This may be in your foster home, at your family’s home or even at a contact centre. We are also happy for you to keep in touch with your family via the phone. This can be a good way to keep in contact if face-to-face meetings are not possible.

What is a social worker?

Social workers are responsible for helping individuals and families achieve the best outcomes. Their role is to improve the living conditions of those they support and help them to cope with their environment. You will be assigned a social worker and your foster carer will have a supervising social worker too. Your social worker is there to protect you and ensure you are adequately cared for. They will listen to you and provide support. Your foster carer’s supervising social worker is there to offer your carer guidance. This system makes sure that everyone is happy, supported and working together.

Why do I need to attend meetings?

Another boring meeting, right? Meetings are important because they help to make sure you are happy and that your placement is working for you. It may seem boring, but we need to keep track of your growth and development and monitor your environment. Meetings are also an opportunity for you to raise anything you’re unhappy with. We’re here to listen and help.

Who can I talk to?

Everyone surrounding you wants you to feel happy and secure. If there are issues, please raise them so they can be looked into. You can speak to your carer, your social worker, your carer’s supervising social worker, a fusion representative or even a teacher or other adult who will be able to contact us and let us know. If you wish, you can call our team on 03301 239355 and they will pass you onto the right person who will be able to listen and help you with your concerns.

If you want to look at some online resources, ChildLine is very useful. They offer a range of services on topics such as family, bullying, neglect, abuse and other issues. You can speak to ChildLine privately about any issue or worry – chat online, send an email or give them a call on 0800 1111.