We want our carers to enjoy fostering and be equipped to do it well, which is why we provide a comprehensive range of training and support services.
Training
Ongoing training is provided for carers to enable them to manage and meet the needs of the children they care for. After training is completed, Hounslow ensures its carers have a team of experienced and committed workers to provide practical support and advice. We have a 24 hour helpline for around the clock support - 365 days a year.
Support
In addition, a support network is available from social workers and experienced foster carers, and there are regular support group meetings for our foster carers. Allowances differ from child to child depending on their age but currently carers receive up to £353 per week for each child in their care. Additionally, carers are entitled to a substantial grant to enable them to buy all the necessary equipment eg, bed, bedroom furniture and other essential equipment before they start fostering.
Retention package
Hounslow offers foster carers a retention package which includes group activities twice a year, for foster carers birth children. Activities include lazer quest, soft play, pantomime and Christmas meals.
Foster carers children tell us they enjoy this group and find it fun. We also provide our foster carers and members of their family with free leisure passes to some of the south east’s most exciting venues. These include:
Madame Tussauds
London Planeterium
Thorpe Park
Warwick Castle
Chessington World of Adventures
Legoland
Concessionary leisure passes for all of Hounslow’s swimming pools and sports facilities
Discounts at WH Smith and Early Learning Centre
Discounts at two African-Caribbean hairdressers in Hounslow
Concessionary rates at Feltham Megabowl
Discount at Moore Brothers Bicycle Shop
An annual fun day for foster carers, their family and the children they care for. The day has a carnival atmosphere and includes food, stalls, entertainment, music and much more
An annual carers award ceremony/dinner and dance where staff and carers meet up to celebrate the extraordinary contribution that our carers make to the lives of Hounslow’s looked after children and young people
Contact us
Hounslow Family Placement
Civic Centre
Lampton Road
Hounslow
TW3 4DN
Tel: 0800 731 8558
Fax: 020 8583 3444
E-mail: fostering@hounslow.gov.uk
