Types of foster care - Short and long term | Life Without Barriers

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When it comes to fostering, no two children or families are the same. Some children may need foster care for a few nights, while others will need a more permanent home. That is why we need a range of carers doing different types of care to meet the unique needs of children in care.

Foster care types

Emergency or Crisis

Children may need somewhere to stay immediately, for a night or even a few weeks. The call for emergency foster care can happen anytime.

Respite

Respite care gives children an opportunity to mix in a different social network while their permanent carer takes a short break.

Short-term

While plans for longer-term care are made, or until difficult situations at home are resolved, children need a safe, stable, caring environment.

Long-term

Sometimes children need long-term care and support – a home where they can heal and grow and keep in contact with their family.

Other care types

Kinship

Living with a relative or close family friend can help protect the important connections a child has to their family, culture and community.

Guardianship

Through an Order of the Children’s Court, guardianships offer children stability and permanency while still protecting legal ties to their family.

Foster to Adoption

Through adoption children become a permanent member of the adoptive family but this is only considered in some states and territories and in specific circumstances.