Nau mai e ngā mātua atawhai

Tā te tamariki tāna mahi wāwāhi tahā.
It is the children’s job to smash the calabash.

There are many reasons to become a foster carer.

If you have the space in your home, time to invest in caring for a child, and would like to help them learn and succeed - this is a hugely rewarding role.

Learn more

Tamariki and rangatahi coming into our care may have experienced adversity and difficulties, and therefore many have behavioural challenges. They need stability, connection, kindness, assurance and support to thrive.

We use the Teaching Family Model to support rangatahi in the most effective way. Click here to find out more.

A foster care placement is typically a full year. However, some foster carers choose to provide shorter stays and respite care from one to two weeks.

Foster carers can access around-the-clock support.

These are key areas you’ll be assessed on for foster care suitability, and key ways we support you.

Getting to know you

We will meet with you several times, to work out whether caregiving is right for you. We will discuss a number of things, including the suitability of your home, who else lives there, and other details around the nature of caregiving.

Police and Ministry of Social Development (MSD) check

Like every other organisation who works with tamariki and rangatahi, all our staff and caregivers need to be vetted.

Participation in training programmes

In order for tamariki and rangatahi who are staying with us to receive the best level of care, we ensure that our caregivers receive ongoing training and development opportunities. Training covers a range of topics, including our model of practice, understanding tamariki development and behaviour, recognising risks, safe caring practices, first aid, etc.

Ongoing support

We will walk alongside you to provide support and guidance in your role as a caregiver.

What to expect when you become a caregiver:

Financial support to cover all the bases of raising a rangatahi – food, travel, electricity and water, etc.

Training and ongoing coaching on the therapeutic programme that the rangatahi will experience in your care.

You will be part of a team of caregivers who meet regularly and will be supported by a multidisciplinary staffed team - which includes social workers and practice and cultural advisors.

Holiday and weekend breaks. We’ll create a plan with you, ensuring you receive regular time out from foster care throughout a rangatahi’s stay.

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