Carer Support
We provide foster carers with the best possible support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. From therapy and educational support to general advice and guidance, our friendly team of support staff are here for you when you need it the most.
What support can we provide?
When you join FFI as a foster carer, you’ll be supported by our team, every step of the way.
Professional Guidance
Regular visits and telephone contact from an experienced and qualified Link Social Worker
Around the clock Support
Evening and weekend support when you need it, from a Link Social Worker and a member of the Management Team
Paid Respite Breaks
Up to 10 nights paid respite per year
Peer Support Groups
Regular carer group meetings held at a local venue where you can share your experiences and knowledge with other foster carers.
Ongoing Training
A comprehensive foster carer training programme
Financial Support
When you are fostering, you will receive the statutory fostering allowance when a young person is in your care.
Family Activities
Organised activities for you, your family and the children in your care held across the year.
Preparing you for your journey as a carer
We are committed to providing our carers with the quality training they need to deal with the more complex aspects of the role.
Whether you want to develop your skills or receive specialist placement training, our team are on hand to give you the support and guidance you need. Your training starts as part of the assessment process and continues through your time as a foster carer.
In the 12 months following approval, you will complete post-approval training, which consists of seven core training modules:
Safer caring
Valuing diversity and promoting equality
Recording
Child protection
Promoting positive behaviour
Teamwork, communication and access
Attachment
Access Fostering First Irelands Support Services
When you join us as a carer, you’ll have full access to our dedicated support services, designed to guide and assist you every day throughout your journey as a foster carer:
Education Officer
Therapists
Childcare Support Workers
Apply to Become a Carer
At present we are not recruiting for respite only foster carers at present
If you would like to see if you are eligible to foster please get in touch now. Fill out our enquiry form.
Learn More About
Becoming a Foster Carer
It normally takes from 6-8 months to go through the assessment process, although this largely depends on your personal circumstances. We will do everything we can to make it as straightforward and simple as possible, offering you all the support and guidance you need, every step of the way.
Assessment Process
Our vision is to be the leading trauma-informed organisation which fosters respect, belonging, and acceptance. Recognising the harmful impact of trauma on the health and well-being of children, families, and communities, our commitment is to create safe, inclusive environments to build resilience and promote healing and growth.
Carer Learning and Development
Our multidisciplinary team offers a range of tailored assessments and therapeutic supports designed to meet the complex needs of children and families. Whether it’s a psychological assessment, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, or social work input, our goal is to build a clear picture of each child’s strengths and challenges.