How are foster carers supported between placements?

Between placements, foster carers remain part of the fostering service and continue to receive structured support rather than being left to manage the transition alone. The focus is usually on reviewing the previous placement, maintaining approval requirements, preparing the household and considering whether a future placement is suitable.

Support after a placement ends

When a placement ends, carers may have a discussion with their supervising team to reflect on what happened, identify any outstanding actions and consider what could be learned for future placements. This can include reviewing records, checking that relevant information has been passed on and making sure the carer has had an opportunity to raise concerns about the child’s needs or the way the placement ended.

Not every placement ends in the same way. A planned move, an unplanned ending or a transition to permanence can each involve different practical and emotional considerations. A clear review helps carers understand what happens next and whether any additional preparation would be useful before they are considered for another placement.

Supervision and review of approval

Foster carers have regular opportunities to discuss their fostering role with their supervising social worker or fostering team. These conversations can cover the household, relationships, record keeping, safeguarding responsibilities, training needs and the type of placement the carer feels able to consider.

Formal reviews also help confirm that the fostering arrangement continues to be appropriate. The review may consider the carer’s experience, the support received, any changes in the household and whether the approved terms remain suitable. Carers should tell their fostering service about significant changes, such as a change of address, household members, health or employment, so that the appropriate advice and checks can be arranged.

Preparing for a future placement

Being between placements does not mean that a carer has to accept the next referral offered. Matching should take account of the child’s needs and the carer’s skills, household circumstances, approval terms and available space. Before agreeing to a placement, carers can ask questions about the child’s background, routines, education, health, contact arrangements and known risks.

The fostering team can help the carer assess whether the proposed placement is a realistic match and explain what information is available. Where a placement is agreed, the team should outline the introduction or transition arrangements, practical expectations and any known support needs. Carers can also use the period between placements to prepare the bedroom, review household routines and ensure that essential records and safeguarding arrangements are in order.

Maintaining development and confidence

Foster carers may be supported to identify areas for further development based on their previous experience or the needs of children they may care for in future. This could involve revisiting particular subjects, discussing a difficult situation with a member of the team or taking part in relevant learning. The aim is to keep knowledge current and make sure carers feel able to manage the responsibilities attached to their approval.

Support can also include guidance on safer caring, managing behaviour, supporting contact with family members, recording important information and working with social workers, schools and health professionals. The most useful advice will depend on the carer’s experience and the type of placements being considered.

Financial and practical guidance

Financial arrangements can be different when a child is not living in the household, so carers should ask their fostering team how allowances, expenses and other payments are handled between placements. The team can explain the relevant arrangements and help carers understand which costs relate to an active placement and which household expenses remain their responsibility.

Practical support may also cover paperwork, equipment, household preparation and any actions identified during supervision or a placement review. Keeping these matters up to date can make the next assessment and matching discussion clearer, while reducing avoidable delays when a suitable referral is considered.

What carers should do between placements

• Keep in contact with the fostering team and attend planned supervision or review meetings.
• Complete any agreed records or follow-up actions from the previous placement.
• Tell the team about changes that could affect fostering or the household.
• Discuss any worries, learning needs or concerns rather than waiting until a new placement begins.
• Ask for clear information before deciding whether a proposed placement is suitable.
• Check how financial arrangements and practical responsibilities apply during the gap between placements.

The level and type of support will depend on the carer’s circumstances, approval terms and previous placement experience. A good fostering service keeps the conversation active between placements, helps carers learn from what has happened and supports informed decisions about what they are ready to take on next.