Blogs

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Nov 20 2023 10:42AM

How is fostering different to parenting?

Latest Blogs

We'll compare parenting and fostering, helping you make informed decisions for the children in your care.

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Nov 1 2023 8:23AM

Taking Your Foster Child On Holiday

Latest Blogs

We often get asked if foster children can go on holiday with their foster parents. So, here’s what you need to know about taking your foster child on holiday.

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Oct 27 2023 12:12PM

Tips and Ideas for Making Bonfire Night Special for Foster Children

Latest Blogs

Let’s look at some ways you can make this Bonfire night even more special and safe for your foster child.

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Oct 19 2023 15:23PM

Guide to a Fang-tastic Halloween: Fun for All Ages!

Latest Blogs

From pumpkin painting to haunted house challenges, there's a wide range of Halloween activities that can cater to the unique interests and needs of each child in your care.

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Oct 17 2023 10:20AM

A day in the life of foster parents Angie and Paul

Latest Blogs

We explore and gain an insight into the daily life of a foster parent, delving into their routines and everyday experiences.

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Oct 4 2023 12:00PM

The Big Sing Off: A Celebration of Voices and Togetherness

Latest Blogs

Each year, Foster Care Associates and other independent fostering agencies eagerly await a special day that takes centre stage in our calendar: The Big Sing Off. It's not just an event; it's a celebration of voices, unity, and lasting memories.

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Oct 2 2023 10:20AM

Can I move house with a foster child?

Latest Blogs

The question of whether you can move house with a foster child doesn't have a straightforward answer. In this blog, we'll provide information to help clarify this issue as much as possible.

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Sep 26 2023 11:00AM

Celebrating FCA Midlands children achievements

Latest Blogs

FCA Midlands staff and foster families recently got together at an event to celebrate children and young people’s incredible achievements.

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Sep 25 2023 11:00AM

FCA South Western - Trash Trail Somerset

Latest Blogs

Somerset hosted one of the largest social events in the UK to promote greener living. FCA South Western sponsored Ruffles the parrot to raise money for this deserving charity.

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Sep 12 2023 12:00PM

How We Work With Local Authorities to Find Your Foster Child

Latest Blogs

Discover our collaborative approach with local authorities to connect you with your future foster child. Learn how we make fostering a reality for you.

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Aug 15 2023 12:00PM

It takes a village: Why foster parents need to feel supported

Latest Blogs

At FCA, we hold the belief that providing support for foster parents is of utmost importance. That's why we are dedicated to creating a community of experts and resources to surround you.

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Aug 10 2023 11:00AM

FCA Midlands Annual Sports Day fun

Latest Blogs

FCA Midlands organised an Annual Sports Day extravaganza catering to foster families, featuring a thrilling array of sports, inflatable slides, soft play, a delicious BBQ and a highlight - an onsite ice cream van to top it all off!

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Aug 3 2023 9:00AM

How to Build a Strong Sibling Bond

Latest Blogs

We look at how to encourage sibling bonding and ways to teach young people how to bond with their siblings.

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Jul 31 2023 11:00AM

FCA Midlands Regional Team Away Day, the best day with the best people!

Latest Blogs

Recently FCA Midlands united to rediscover their inner child and bond as a team, cherishing a special opportunity to unwind and foster connections with their colleagues.

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Jul 14 2023 11:00AM

FCA Midlands Management and Leadership Team Away Day

Latest Blogs

This month, our Midlands Management and Leadership Team came together for an away day to review quarter one of 2023/2024.

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Jul 13 2023 11:00AM

Letters to Heaven

Latest Blogs

After losing her mum and best friend to cancer, FCA Therapist Chloe from our Yorks and Lincs Team has raised funds for Letters to Heaven post-boxes to be installed around Sheffield for family and friends to write messages or send cards to deceased loved ones.

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Jul 2 2023 8:34AM

How you can use your parenting skills to help others

Latest Blogs

Parenting is a challenging yet incredibly rewarding role. But did you know there are other ways you can support and empower new, inexperienced, or vulnerable parents? Keep reading to discover how you can lend a helping hand and provide them with the essential tools they need.

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Jul 1 2023 12:00PM

Brilliant ideas for summer activities on a budget

Latest Blogs

Looking to have an amazing summer while keeping your wallet happy? We've got you covered with these 8 brilliant ideas for summer activities on a budget!

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Jul 1 2023 8:00AM

Mythbusting: Parent and Child Foster Care

Latest Blogs

Join us as we bust some myths about mother and baby foster placements and answer any niggling questions you might have about opening your home to not just a vulnerable child, but one or both of their parents too.

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Jun 19 2023 8:00AM

How musical play can help child development

Latest Blogs

Music has this amazing power to captivate us and make us feel all sorts of emotions. And when it comes to children in foster care who have been through tough times, musical play becomes even more important. It has a special significance because it helps these kids heal and grow in a positive way. We dive into the wonderful benefits of musical play for children in care, giving them a nurturing and transformative experience.

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Jun 12 2023 11:00AM

This is me – Voice of a care leaver

Latest Blogs

As part of Pride month which recognises the influence of the LGBTQIA+ community and helps raise awareness, here at FCA we are proud to celebrate the culture of inclusivity, equality and diversity across our entire community.

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Jun 1 2023 12:00PM

What You Need to Know About Parent and Child Fostering

Latest Blogs

At FCA, our goal is, wherever possible, for children to be best placed with their own families. While that might not always happen, parent and baby fostering can be a great alternative, and help set young parents on the right path. But, what exactly is a parent and baby foster placement?

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May 22 2023 12:00PM

Fostering siblings FAQs - What you need to know

Latest Blogs

Here are some questions we’re often asked by prospective foster parents about caring for siblings.

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May 15 2023 12:00PM

7 ways to help boost the self-esteem of young people in foster care

Latest Blogs

Discover the causes of low self-esteem in young people in care and explore effective strategies to boost their self-esteem. Learn how to make a positive impact on their well-being and foster their self-confidence.

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Apr 20 2023 12:00PM

They’re Not Naughty - They’re Hurting

Latest Blogs

When a child is hurting on the inside and hasn’t been given the opportunity to heal, it can affect how they behave on the outside. Gain a deeper understanding of the underlying causes and learn valuable strategies for supporting these vulnerable children.

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Apr 4 2023 1:00AM

Benefits of Fostering to Your Family

Latest Blogs

Welcoming a foster child into your home can bring numerous benefits to your family unit. Here are some of the benefits that fostering can offer your family.

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Mar 13 2023 7:00AM

Foster Care After a Pandemic

Latest Blogs

The impact of the coronavirus pandemic was felt by everyone around the world and none more so than by children and young people in the foster care system.

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Mar 3 2023 8:00AM

5 tips for when your foster placement ends

Latest Blogs

Ending foster placements can be an extremely emotional and upsetting time for foster parents. Here are 5 tips for when your foster placement ends

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Feb 28 2023 12:00PM

Which type of foster care is right for you?

Latest Blogs

Making the decision to become a foster parent is a life-changing career move - both for you and the children you will be caring for. But which type of foster care is right for you?

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Feb 23 2023 12:00PM

Fostering: myths and the cost of living crisis

Latest Blogs

We know that times are tough, but you will be key in making a lasting and positive impact on those who need it most. Find out how FCA helps our foster parents.

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Jan 31 2023 12:00PM

Why it’s Good to Talk to Children About Money

Latest Blogs

Let’s take a look at some of the reasons why it’s good to talk to children about money and why talking about money early with your children is important.

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Jan 24 2023 12:00PM

10 Ways to Help Your Foster Child Settle In

Latest Blogs

There are some things you can, and should, do to help foster kids settle in. Here are 10 ways to help your foster child settle into a new placement.

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Dec 16 2022 12:00PM

Why You Should Consider A Foster Care Career In 2023

Latest Blogs

We know the idea of changing careers can be pretty daunting, but it’s also an exciting one too. Here are six reasons why you should consider a foster care career in 2023 and help change children’s lives.

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Nov 22 2022 12:00PM

Personalised Christmas Gift Ideas for Foster Children

Latest Blogs

It's nearly that wonderful time of the year again! Days are getting colder and the nights and drawing in, which means only one thing... Christmas is around the corner!

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Nov 11 2022 11:00AM

John Lewis Christmas Advert Shines Light on Fostering

Latest Blogs

The John Lewis Christmas campaign is a highly anticipated marker of the festive season, and this year, its focus is on fostering.

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Nov 4 2022 8:00AM

7 Things to do in Manchester with the kids

Latest Blogs

Take a look at our top 7 picks that make for the best family days out with the kids in Manchester

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Oct 31 2022 12:00PM

12 Tips For Keeping Children Safe on Bonfire Night

Latest Blogs

Fireworks, flames and sparklers galore, Bonfire Night is a spectacle that kicks off winter with a bang. But it also presents some dangers. Follow our tips so you will always Remember, Remember the 5th of November for all the right reasons.

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Oct 27 2022 12:00PM

Growing up in a foster family

Latest Blogs

October is Sons and Daughters Month, The Fostering Network’s annual campaign to celebrate the vital contribution the children of foster parents make to foster care. Two of our children from FCA Northern Ireland share their thoughts growing up in a fostering household.

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Oct 20 2022 9:23AM

6 Fun Alternative Halloween Activities For Foster Children

Latest Blogs

Get creative this Halloween and try out these ghoulish games and activities for some fang-tastic fun with your foster children!

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Oct 10 2022 12:00PM

The Big Sing Off 2022

Latest Blogs

The Big Sing Off is back. After a two year break we are delighted choirs from across FCA took part in the annual singing competition. Choirs selected a song which they felt reflected the Love and Peace theme they then performed to a crowd of over 300 people. Our audience were also the judges.

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Sep 8 2022 12:00PM

International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) Day

Latest Blogs

Recent research highlighted 75% of children released for adoption have FASD, and yet it is so under diagnosed and often misdiagnosed as ADHD or autism.

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Aug 15 2022 12:00PM

#WithYou...this is their Summer

Latest Blogs

This summer, we’re catching up with our foster parents to find out what their special memories are from the holidays and how they are keeping the children entertained throughout the 6-week break.

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Aug 12 2022 11:00AM

Could you make a child’s summer special?

Latest Blogs

Two of our foster parents share their summer memories including their favourite moments and funny stories.

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Aug 9 2022 11:00AM

North East Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Awards: Expedition Fun

Latest Blogs

FCA North East Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Qualifying Expedition took place over two days, our Participation Officer tells us all about it.

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Aug 5 2022 11:00AM

Meet care leaver Shauna

Latest Blogs

Our #ChangeTheStory campaign is breaking down the stigma that surrounds children and young people within the care system, changing the narrative by giving them the chance to talk about their own journeys and how foster care changed their lives for the better. We catch-up with Shauna, a care leaver from the North East, who is currently studying for a law degree. She explains what a positive impact her foster family had, and their support in helping her achieve her dream of studying law.

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Jul 28 2022 9:20AM

Busting Common Myths Around Transferring Foster Agency

Latest Blogs

Transferring might be easier than you think. In this guide, we’ll be busting the common myths about transferring; from misconceptions around finances and process, to transferring agencies with a child already in your care.

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Jul 26 2022 12:00PM

Why We Need to Help Children Play

Latest Blogs

As we celebrate #Playday2022 the national day for play, we reflect on how play can shape our children's lives and why some looked after children find play more stressful than fun.

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Jul 20 2022 12:00PM

Top 10 Reasons To Transfer to FCA

Latest Blogs

If you’re looking to join a thriving fostering community where you aren’t just a number, but have a voice in effecting real change and improving the lives of the children in your care then discover the reasons why you should transfer to FCA.

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Jul 14 2022 12:00PM

Benefits of Having a Cat with Children

Latest Blogs

As we celebrate international cat day here at FCA, we wanted to highlight the benefits of having cats and children. Whether you are a cat owner thinking about having children or looking to add a cat to your family unit, cats can be a healthy, joyful and helpful addition to children when growing up in a variety of ways.

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Jun 9 2022 11:00AM

More than letters, we are people - LGBT+ Community

Latest Blogs

This Pride Month Midlands foster parent Leon has written an extremely informative blog with useful insight and resources. Leon also recognises the importance of Pride month within the LGBT+ community. For many it is a support network where people who are part of this community can feel safe and happy, feeling they belong without any judgement.

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May 6 2022 8:00AM

7 Ideas For Couples Who Can’t Have Children

Latest Blogs

There are dozens of ways to start a new family. Here are some options you can consider when you can’t have children.

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Apr 4 2022 9:23AM

6 signs you know it’s time to transfer foster agency

Latest Blogs

When you’re a foster parent, one of the most important things is being satisfied with your foster agency. But what happens if you’re not happy? In this guide, we’ll share the signs it’s time to switch, and how to do it easily.

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Mar 28 2022 6:52AM

Important Skills Needed to be a Foster Carer

Latest Blogs

Foster parents do a truly amazing job by opening up their hearts and homes to children in care, but it takes a lot of hard work and dedication. Here’s a list of the most essential skills needed to be a foster carer.

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Mar 21 2022 12:00PM

How You Can Help Refugee Children

Latest Blogs

Take a look at these ways in which you can help not just Ukrainian refugees, but vulnerable asylum-seeking children and young people from all over the world.

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Mar 2 2022 16:00PM

6 rewarding ways to earn money after retirement

Latest Blogs

It’s normal to want to do things after you retire. And when you want a little extra spending money, there are things you can do after retirement to make money.

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Feb 18 2022 12:00PM

Care Day 2022 – #ChangeTheStory

Latest Blogs

This Care Day 2022, our #ChangeTheStory campaign is breaking down the stigma that surrounds children and young people within the care system, changing the narrative by giving them the chance to talk about their own journeys and how foster care changed their lives for the better.

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Feb 10 2022 8:00AM

Dealing with Mental Health Disorders in Children

Latest Blogs

A child’s mental health is just as important as their physical health, so here are some tips for spotting the signs and helping a youngster who is struggling mentally.

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Feb 7 2022 15:00PM

How Being in Care Affects Children’s Mental Health

Latest Blogs

The relationship between foster care and mental health is a close one, as children in care are at greater risk of developing severe or complex mental health conditions – here's why.

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Skills That Make Care Workers Great Foster Parents

Nov 19 2021 12:00PM

9 Skills of a Care Worker That Make Them Great Foster Parents

Latest Blogs

Thinking about changing your career and using the skills you already have to give children and young people the love and security they deserve? Find out why carer workers make great foster parents.

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Oct 19 2021 12:00PM

Sons and Daughters Month: Celebrating the Children Who Foster

Latest Blogs

As we celebrate the vital contribution the children of foster carers make, a birth son of one of FCA's foster parents shares his experience of what is was like to welcome a younger sibling group of 3 fostered children into his family.

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Aug 16 2021 12:00PM

A Fostering Poem

Latest Blogs

One of our foster parents from Cymru has got creative and shared a lovely poem about her fostering journey...

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Jul 19 2021 12:00PM

#WithYou…this could be their summer

Latest Blogs

All children and young people deserve a fun and happy summer making memories that will last a lifetime.

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May 21 2021 12:00PM

Foster Care Fortnight 2021 #WhyWeCare

Latest Blogs

During Foster Care Fortnight 2021, our staff and foster parents have been sharing their reasons #WhyWeCare to showcase how foster care can transform the lives of children and young people.

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Apr 2 2021 9:00AM

FCA celebrates World Autism Awareness Day 2021

Latest Blogs

This World Autism Awareness Day, at FCA we are shining a spotlight on our very own FCA team member, Rachel Griffin, whose daughter was diagnosed with Autism four years ago.

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Feb 19 2021 10:00AM

Sons and daughters of fostering families

Latest Blogs

Amy has been in a fostering family for just over 10 years now, she tells us about her experience.

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Nov 30 2020 14:00PM

Why do you need a spare room to foster?

Latest Blogs

By far one of the most common and reoccurring questions we receive is do you need a spare bedroom and why do you need a spare bedroom to foster a child.

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Nov 19 2020 15:00PM

FCA North East Eco project launched

Latest Blogs

The FCA North East Eco Project and Environment Strategy aims to improve ways the region can help protect nature and the environment.

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Nov 19 2020 13:00PM

Declutter your spare bedroom

Latest Blogs

7 tips for decluttering your spare bedroom

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Nov 19 2020 10:00AM

Give your spare room a new lease of life

Latest Blogs

Tips to give your spare bedroom a new lease of life.

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Nov 19 2020 10:00AM

Brighten your foster child’s bedroom

Latest Blogs

Cheap and cheerful ways to brighten your foster child’s bedroom

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Nov 19 2020 10:00AM

Don’t mess with Manchester

Latest Blogs

Don’t mess with Manchester

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Nov 17 2020 12:00PM

The value of training

Latest Blogs

The training from FCA is so beneficial to us as foster parents

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Nov 17 2020 10:00AM

My experience of being part of a fostering family

Latest Blogs

Young person Ethan visited FCA Central Services and wrote a blog about his experience of being part of a fostering family.

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Nov 17 2020 10:00AM

In their shoes

Latest Blogs

Foster parent Vikki has written a blog about her experience after completing 10 days respite for two young boys and how she thinks it would feel to be a foster child.

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Nov 17 2020 10:00AM

Back to school routine

Latest Blogs

We have put together some tips to help make children and young people's transition from summer holidays to school as smooth as possible.

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Nov 9 2020 17:00PM

Your fostering panel day

Latest Blogs

Find out what happens at a fostering panel

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Nov 7 2020 12:00PM

Growing up in a fostering household

Latest Blogs

Growing up in a fostering household Lauren had already gained a wealth of fostering knowledge and experience. In 2019 she followed in her parents footsteps and became a foster parent with FCA too.

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Nov 7 2020 12:00PM

Yorks and Lincs children and young people

Latest Blogs

Yorks and Lincs children and young people write to elderly residents with letters and pictures during isolation

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Nov 6 2020 12:00PM

FCA North East AQA virtual Awards Ceremony

Latest Blogs

FCA North East hold first virtual AQA Awards Ceremony

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Nov 6 2020 12:00PM

Poems from our children and young people

Latest Blogs

We love to see what how creative our children and young people are.

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Nov 6 2020 12:00PM

My parents put family at the heart of everything they do

Latest Blogs

What impact will fostering have on my family? 25 year old Yasmin from the Isle of Wight gives a real account of what it’s like when your parents foster.

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Oct 7 2020 18:00PM

How long does it take to become a foster parent?

Latest Blogs

There are five primary steps in which everyone will need to take in order to become a foster parent.

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Oct 7 2020 17:00PM

Fostering Assessments with FCA during social distancing

Latest Blogs

In light of recent Government social distancing instructions, we have amended our recruitment and assessment processes.

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