Foster buddies

Your foster buddy is there to support you

We don't want a foster carer to ever feel they're on their own. It's important they feel supported at all times.

So we buddy up new foster carers with experienced foster carers for the first six months. This includes the first placement.

Our team of foster care buddies also work closely with registered carers to help them adhere to the Norfolk Foster Carers' Charter.

How does our buddying scheme work?

We offer each foster carer the chance to pair up with a registered foster carer, who understands the challenges and rewards involved.

We can pair you up with a buddy at any stage of the fostering process. It's up to you to work out when you think it would benefit you most.

You might want to buddy up at the beginning of your journey to help you decide if fostering is right for you. Or you may feel you need help during or after the assessment process.

Whenever you think you need it, your buddy will be there to support, guide and reassure you. Remember, they've been there. They know what you're going through.

Become a buddy - and then an ambassador

The opportunity to undertake the buddying role is open to any Norfolk foster carer.

We'll provide extra training and buddies can go on to become Foster Carer Ambassadors.

Our ambassadors are a team who have years of experience in fostering. They're available to answer questions, address concerns and take you through the highs and lows of fostering.