Type of Foster Care

There are lots of different types of foster placement that last for different lengths of time, and you’re free to choose which types you’d like to take on. Usually, the exact length of their stay will be unknown, but they tend to fit into the following categories. United will offer a wide range of placement for children and young people aged 0-18 years.

Short term foster care- A child will stay with you for anything from a few days to a couple of years while local authorities make plans for their future.

Long term foster care - Sometimes, children need to live away from their birth family permanently but don’t want to be adopted. So they might stay with you until they’re adults.

Respite care - Respite fostering is provided to foster carers a break or offer additional support if they do not have their support network.

Emergency foster care - When a child needs a safe place to stay at short notice, they’ll be placed with you for a few days and nights.