Short-term foster care
While difficult situations at home are resolved or until plans for longer-term care are made, children need a safe, stable, caring environment where they can strengthen their family relationships, so they can return home safely.
Why do children need this type of care?
Foster care is initially aimed at supporting children’s safe return home to their families. So, while we explore and support all options for them to return safely home, children need short-term care in a stable and nurturing environment with carers who accept them and their families for who they are. This type of care is sometimes called reunification or restoration care and it is important that carers work closely with family to support children going safely home.
If returning home or living with family is not in the child's best interest, we'll explore options for long-term care in a home where they can heal and grow and keep in contact with their family to protect their identity and sense of belonging.
If returning home or living with family is not in the child's best interest, we'll explore options for long-term care in a home where they can heal and grow and keep in contact with their family to protect their identity and sense of belonging.
Duration of care
4 weeks to 6 months.
What support do carers receive?
Our foster carers are never alone in their caring journey. It can be difficult to comprehend the experiences children bring with them, so it is important that carers feel supported and confident in their role.
- TrainingWe provide carers with a range of learning opportunities suited to their level of experience and the needs of children in their care.
- 24/7 on-call supportOur foster carers have access to on-call support at any time of the day or night for advice, support and direction in stressful situations.
- Financial supportFoster carers receive a tax-free allowance to support the needs of children placed in their care.
- Specialist supportOur specialist staff work with children and alongside carers where additional support is needed.
- RespiteFor a night or a weekend, children in care may spend time with a respite carer, an opportunity to strengthen social and family networks while their carer takes a short break. This type of care is only offered when it is in children's interests.
- Carer networkingTalking to other carers is sometimes the best form of support. Through regular carer events we create opportunities for carers to share their concerns, celebrate successes and provide feedback to the Life Without Barriers team.
Are there any other types of short-term care?
Yes. And with just under 50,000 children unable to live safely at home in Australia we are always looking for foster carers to help these children feel protected, supported and safe.