Specialist foster care for disabled children is about making at least a two-year commitment to care for a disabled child either on a full-time or part-time basis...
The children are usually aged between two and twelve and are affected by a disability. These disabilities can include autism, Down’s Syndrome and learning disabilities. Some of the children have physical disabilities and are wheelchair users. A number have hearing or sight impairments, or complex medical needs. A few of the children may have experienced abuse or neglect.
Some of the children live with their parents and need very regular respite (weekly or regular weekends). Others need full-time foster care. The children need carers who can understand their individual needs and offer them stimulation and care which enables them to reach their full potential. They need a carer who can meet the special challenges that caring for a disabled child brings.
In addition to the general qualities and experience needed for carers, as a specialist foster carer for disabled children you must: