I saw an advert for By the Bridge and the company sounded really different so we went along to an Introduction Evening and liked the feel of the place as soon as we walked in. All of the information was about quality of care and a professional approach to fostering and we knew that By the Bridge was the right company for us. Professional development
Central to our approach is to promote the professionalism of our foster parents. We know that fostering is a sophisticated task requiring high levels of commitment and skilled communication.
All By the Bridge families are distinguished by having committed to therapeutic fostering as a profession. We offer our foster parents a range of ongoing courses to develop, maintain and enhance professional and personal development. Training provided includes over 20 relevant short courses, an NVQ3 programme, and a unique degree level Certificate in Therapeutic Fostering which is credit rated by the University of Greenwich.
We also actively invest in a number of research and development programmes, designed to enhance outcomes for children and families. By the Bridge is involved in the first fostering Knowledge Transfer Partnership, a government initiative designed to blend academic skills and company expertise. We are collaborating with the University of Kent in a two year research project to scientifically study the characteristics of a ‘good’ foster parent.
By the Bridge regularly participate in a number of national and international conferences on aspects of its unique approach to fostering, and why its results are exceptional.
