Why are children Fostered?

There a many reasons why children are fostered; it is important to remember that every child's circumstances are different and complex. Here is a list of a few reasons children are fostered:

• A parent is ill

• A child who is orphaned

• A child who has been abused

• A child's safety is threatened

• Family breakdown

• Stressful situations

• Families need a break

How long children are fostered depends on the child's circumstances and in some cases children might need to be fostered for much longer. This can be for two or three years before a child returns home, while the social workers and others try to resolve more serious problems within the family.