Being a foster carer is more flexible than you might think.

There are so many misconceptions out there about Foster Care. We’re here to bust some of the most common myths and misconceptions about being a foster carer.

If you have any questions or would like more information about becoming a foster carer, please call 1300 610 610 or fill out the enquiry form below.

 

Myth #1: I'm not married so I can't be a carer.

 

Myth Busted: We welcome carers from all backgrounds, cultures and experiences. Foster carers can be married, single or same-sex couples, with or without children, divorced or de facto.

 

Myth #2: I’m in a same-sex relationship so I can’t be a carer.

Myth busted: Anyone can apply to be a foster carer with Anglicare, regardless of sexual orientation. You could be single, male or female, married, in a hetero or same-sex relationship, have other children in the home or have no children at all. The most important thing is that you are willing to provide a supportive, positive and caring environment to a child or young person in need.

Myth #3: I can't be a foster parent because I work full time.

 

Myth busted: Many parents work full time and have children – foster parenting is much the same. All that matters is that you have a desire to make a positive change in a child or young person’s life.

 

Myth #4: You have to be able to care for a child full time.

Myth busted: Emergency and respite carers are an integral part of the foster system so if you can’t commit to a permanent carer position but want to make a difference, this may be the perfect solution. Emergency carers can take in vulnerable children overnight while we find a more permanent solution. Respite carers give permanent carers a respite and act as another positive influence in their lives.

 

Myth #5: You need to have a big home.

 

Myth Busted: The size of your heart is far more important than the size of your home. Children and young people in foster care need a space where they feel like they belong. As part of this, foster children need to have their own bedroom. Sibling groups can share a bedroom but we ask that children who aren’t related have their own room. It is possible for a foster child to share a bedroom in respite care.

Most importantly, a desire to make a difference in the life of a young person is the biggest requirement – we’ll help you negotiate the rest.

 

Myth #6: I'm too old to be a foster carer.

 

Myth Busted: If you have a desire to make a difference to the life of a child and are healthy enough to provide consistent care then you are the perfect carer. In fact, many retired couples are able to fill the ‘empty nest’ by caring for children and young people in need and their wealth of life experience makes them fantastic mentors.

 

Myth #7: You need to be a perfect parent.

 

Myth Busted: Nobody’s perfect. What counts is that you have a drive to make a change in a young person’s life and be a positive influence on them moving forwards. We’ll work with you to equip you with the skills you need for success.

 

Myth #8: I don't have the skills to foster a child.

 

Myth busted: You’re not alone, we’ll be there every step of the way to support you on your foster care journey. We provide all the training and resources you’ll need to be the best carer you can be.

 

Myth #9: I can't be a foster carer because I don't have any children.

 

Myth busted: You don’t have to have children to be a foster carer. We provide training to equip you with the skills you need to succeed on your foster care journey.

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