Foster Carers share the skills you need to foster

We asked our foster carers in Dorset what skills and qualities make a great foster carer. Their insight offers a glimpse into the heart and dedication required for this vital role, which can change the life of a child or young person for the better.  

Having ‘love to give,’ ‘the ability to listen’ and ‘time to offer a child’ ranked most highly amongst the responses, quickly followed by ‘empathy’ and ‘open-mindedness.’    

One foster carer shared, "When I first started fostering, I was nervous about how I would manage. But seeing the children grow and thrive has been the most rewarding experience of my life. It's not just about providing a home; it's about being there for them, listening, and showing them love."   

According to Dorset Council foster carers, the keys skills and qualities needed to be a great foster carer include:  

• Patience and Time: Foster carers emphasise the importance of having patience and dedicating time to the children in their care.  

• A Loving Heart: A genuine, loving heart is essential to provide the emotional support that children and young people need.  

• An Open Mind: Being open-minded helps foster carers adapt to various situations and understand the unique needs of each child.  

• Ability to Listen: Listening is crucial. Foster carers need to be attentive and empathetic listeners. They do not always need to have all the answers.  

• Keenness to Learn: Fostering is a continuous learning journey, both about oneself and the children being cared for.  

Cllr Clare Sutton, Dorset Council Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education, and Skills, said: "We are looking for people from all walks of life to apply to foster with Dorset Council, helping us keep children and young people in the county they call home, close to family, friends, their schools, and the places that are important to them. 

"At Dorset Council, we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds. Whether you are single, renting, or child-free, you can make a difference. There is no upper age limit, and as long as you are over 21, have a spare room, and time to offer a child, you can apply. 

“Fostering is about providing love, stability, and support and we will provide you with the training and resources to provide the best care possible. We invite anyone interested in becoming a foster carer to reach out and learn more. Your love, patience, and dedication can make a world of difference to a child or young person’s life." 

To learn more about fostering with Dorset Council or to submit an enquiry, visit fosterwithdorsetcouncil.com or call 01305 221000 and ask to speak to fostering enquiries. 

Visit the events section of the website to find out when the fostering information stand will next be in your local area.