Children and young people can require care for differing lengths of times. Foster carers can look after children and young people for few nights, a few weeks, months or until a child reaches adulthood and beyond.
Immediate or crisis care
- A few nights up to a few months until a child can return home or until a more suitable placement is identified. These placements are usually required at short notice.
Short to medium-term care
- From a few months up to two years.
- Often the focus is on providing a home for a child while their parents receive support to resolve issues. Some kids will return home or move in with extended family and others may need long term care.
Long-term care
- If the child cannot return to live with their family they receive long term care until they turn 18 and often beyond.
Respite care
- Respite care is for short, usually pre planned periods of time.
- Respite carers might care for a child one weekend a month or for a few weeks during school holidays.
- Respite carers offer a child the opportunity to develop additional positive relationships.