We offer a range of support to help you care for a child and feel confident in your role.
Financial support
You will receive:
- a weekly allowance for the child
- a weekly fostering fee
You may also get extra financial help, such as:
- a one-off payment for essential furniture and equipment (up to £500)
- an emergency clothing allowance (up to £100)
- help with school uniform costs when a child changes school
- a payment when the young person turns 18
Additional benefits may include access to discount schemes and savings.
Leisure and wellbeing support
We offer a range of benefits to support you and your household, which may include:
- access to leisure facilities
- short breaks or holiday opportunities
- invitations to events and celebration activities
- regular newsletters and updates
- opportunities to join forums and connect with other carers
Support from our team
You will be supported by:
- a supervising social worker
- family support workers
We also provide:
- support during office hours from duty workers
- emergency support outside normal hours
Peer and professional support
We will help you connect with:
- an experienced foster carer mentor
- peer support groups
You may also have access to:
- advocacy services
- wellbeing support for children and young people
- safeguarding guidance and resources
Training and development
You can access a range of training courses to help you develop your skills and confidence.
Contact your supervising social worker to access training, including online and in-person sessions.
Core training
- safer care
- safeguarding
- paediatric first aid
- attachment
- recording skills
- understanding your role
Specialist training
- autism awareness
- child exploitation
- sleep strategies
- nurturing programmes
- life story work
Contact us
To find out more about support for friends and family fostering:
- Call the team on 023 9283 4071
- Email connectedpersonsduty@portsmouthcc.gov.uk