Regrettably, there are numerous misconceptions surrounding foster care that can often deter individuals from considering becoming foster carers. At BGFA, we are here to dispel these myths and provide you with accurate information.
We understand that fostering may not be for everyone, but if you've ever been intrigued and held back due to misconceptions, let us ease your concerns. Allow us to take the weight off your shoulders and reveal the truth about foster care, surprising you with the rewarding aspects it brings.
Top 10 most common misconceptions about foster care!
You must have some experience caring for children or young people. False
It's a common misconception that fostering requires prior experience in caring for children or young people. In reality, anyone can become a foster carer, regardless of their past experiences. Our primary focus is on caring for the well-being of children or young individuals.
We don't demand previous experience; instead, our main requirement is that you are caring and passionate about children, and capable of providing support to the best of your ability. Demonstrating compassion and care is crucial for us, as it reflects your ability to support both the emotional and physical needs of a child or young person.
2. Unemployed people can’t foster. False
If you're currently unemployed you can still foster, all we look for is financial stability and a spare bedroom. We will do some financial assessments as part of your overall assessment when recruiting you as a foster carer. This is just to ensure that you’re able to give your support and make certain any financial responsibilities are met when it comes to the child or young person.
3. People from the LGBTQ+ community can’t foster. False
As we progress into society we can see ourselves breaking from the typical norms of cohabitation. For example, the ‘nuclear family’ is not a one size fits all group, everyone is different and at BGFA we respect and support those breaking away from societal norms.
With that being said, anyone can foster! At BGFA, we pride ourselves in diversity and inclusion. We believe anyone can be a foster carer, all you need is a spare bedroom and a passion to care for children. We take joy in our diversity and inclusion, having both carers and children from various backgrounds. As an agency, we promote community and family values, irrespective of race, religion, creed, sexuality, and gender. We hope you can join us on this journey to make the world a better place.
4. The elderly can’t foster. False
While there is no maximum age limit to become a foster carer, we do require a minimum age of 21. If you feel you have much to offer a child in need, don't let age hinder you from making a significant difference in someone's life.
5. Only homeowners can foster. False
The only requirement regarding housing we have as an agency is to have one spare bedroom no matter how small or large your house is. As long as the child has enough space and you’re able to provide them a comfortable and safe area to reside in, that is enough.
6. You don’t have control over which child is placed in your home. False
You do in fact have control over what child is placed in your home. We match the child according to the foster carer based on your preference. Therefore, if you’d like to become a foster carer, you don’t need to worry about not having a say on what child you’ll care for, and we as an agency, will support you all the way.
7. All children in care have been physically or sexually abused. False
This belief is usually untrue, as the majority of cases involve poor parenting, leading to children being bought into care. Parents serve as the most significant protective factor in children's lives. Consequently, being separated from them has a lasting impact on both psychological and neurological development.
8. Single people can’t foster. False
There is absolutely no marital requirement when it comes to fostering. As long as you’re a healthy and responsible adult you can become a foster carer.
9. You can’t foster care if you’re disabled. False
Disability is no barrier to fostering, we will consider with you how best we can support you on your fostering journey, and we appreciate your commitment to fulfilling all responsibilities of care.
At BGFA, inclusivity is one of our core values. We are committed to fostering diversity within our team, actively welcoming individuals with disabilities. We firmly believe that having a disability doesn't hinder one's ability to be an exceptional carer. Rest assured, we are committed to providing support and overcoming any obstacles you may encounter on your caregiving journey.
10. Once I have become a carer, I am on my own. False
When you join BGFA as a foster carer, you're not just becoming part of a community; you're becoming part of a family. We are dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. At BGFA, we've established a robust support network for each of our foster carers, along with a 24-hour service for immediate assistance. Additionally, we provide therapeutic services for both foster carers and children.
Our belief is that making a positive change in the world involves being there for others and fostering an environment where both carers and children feel comfortable reaching out for help when needed.
Should you ever have any questions or concerns about becoming a foster carer, we are here to assist you. Feel free to email us at info@bgfa.co.uk or give us a call at 01753 86 86 86.
We asked some potential foster carers what their misconceptions were about foster care, here were the most common:
You need a full time job to become a foster carer
You have to be of a certain age and can’t be “too old”
You need to have a large house
You can't make any mistakes
Your location prevents you from becoming a foster carer
Although these misconceptions are false, they are completely valid and it’s okay for you to be a little wary, as becoming a foster carer is a big responsibility. We understand there are a lot of misconceptions regarding foster care, and that’s why we’re here to answer any questions you may have.
Sometimes it can be easier to speak in person, so pop to our head office and let us know any queries you have before making any decisions. We are open between 9am-5pm Monday to Friday and will be more than happy to help.
When we’re recruiting new foster carers, a part of our assessment is to ask for feedback as well as giving carers the option to ask questions. This is usually the part where carers are training and learning more about their role and the rules and regulations that come with it. As an agency we encourage you to reach out and get any of those questions out of the way.
A message from our carers about breaking barriers!
“In my 14-year journey as a foster carer, 8 of those with BGFA, my experience as a lesbian has seamlessly blended into the fabric of my fostering work. Society's evolving acceptance has rendered my sexual orientation a non-issue, allowing me to focus wholeheartedly on the profound task of providing a nurturing home for children from various walks of life.
Over the years, my wife and I have welcomed children ranging from new borns to older teenagers, including mother and baby placements. The diversity of these experiences has highlighted the universality of love and care, transcending any societal preconceptions about sexual orientation.
In the realm of fostering, my sexual orientation has been a non-factor. British culture, in its current state, has embraced diversity, making my role as a lesbian foster carer a non-issue. The occasional outdated stereotype seems to be confined to isolated pockets of society, having little impact on the broader perspective.
Reflecting on challenges, there have been none directly related to my sexual orientation. The focus remains on the well-being of the children under my care, creating a safe and supportive environment for them to flourish.
In essence, fostering as an LGBTQ+ individual has been an immensely rewarding journey. My wife and I approach our responsibilities with the same dedication as any other couple, emphasising the shared goal of providing stability and love to children in need.
I appreciate the opportunity to contribute to this important dialogue, shedding light on the realities of fostering within the LGBTQ+ community. I hope BGFA continues to break down barriers and fostering a more inclusive understanding of family.”
-BGFA Foster Carer
BGFA is here to listen, advise and make a difference in the world!
We are currently experiencing a national shortage of foster carers, we understand not everyone is able to foster, but if you feel like you can, please contact us on info@bgfa.co.uk or call us on 01753 86 86 86.
