What Social Workers say
On behalf of (the local authority)I would like to thank you for the support and care you so aptly provided (this mother and her baby) whilst they were placed with you and your family.
The success of the placement really came down to the relationship that both you (female foster parent) and (the baby’s mother) formed. Often mother and baby foster placements can be a challenge due to the child care dynamics, particularly when the mother is a little older. However, you and your family had such a warm and caring approach that this was never an issue.
Clearly the placement was very successful and I truly believe that (the baby’s mother) developed confidence and insight due to your great working relationship. I believe that you went above and beyond your role as (the baby’s)foster carer and were truly committed to helping (him and his mother)through their transitional period.
Extract from a letter to a By the Bridge foster parent from a London borough Social Worker, March 2009
The siblings placed in (this By the Bridge family’s) care are very young and are from a different cultural background. (The foster parents) have taken on this challenge with great efficiency. They are confronted with everyday situations with regards to the children’s food preferences as per their culture, sleeping arrangements, distress on being separated from parents, speaking a different language, etc. But there is no outward indication of stress, anxiety or hardship in (the foster parent’s) presentation. In fact, it is their competence in dealing with challenging situations in a seemingly relaxed manner that has helped the children settle beautifully in their care.
I am of the view that (they) have been able to help the children settle so well by making a conscious effort to understand the children’s needs. They do not always seek prescribed solutions to difficult situations but have developed the rare ability to tune in to the needs of children in different circumstances and then sensitively respond to those needs. At the same they are very alert to the significance of certain observations and prompt in informing the relevant professionals to seek advice. (They) are alert to matters significant to child protection and also very professional in their communication with other professionals.
The children placed with (this couple) understandably miss their birth family but are also very proud to be part of the (foster)family. They feel very welcome and accepted without being judged, which is so very crucial for children coming into foster care.
Extract from e-mail sent to a By the Bridge Link Worker by a local authority Social Worker. November 2009
