Who can be a carer
Carers come from all kinds of ethnic, religious, cultural and language backgrounds and as long as you're over 21 years old:
- you can be single, living with a partner, or married
- you may have children or step-children or you may have no children at all
- you may be a tenant or a home-owner
- you may live in a flat or a house
- you may or may not be in paid employment
Carers for children, whoever your are, whatever your age or living situation, and whatever your background, need a number of qualities. You must:
- have understanding and enthusiasm for looking after children
- be able to understand and empathise with a child who has experienced neglect or abuse and with a parent who has been unable to look after (or failed to protect) their child
- not demand or expect gratitude from a child you look after
- work as part of a team that can include the child's family, social workers, educators and other professional staff
- not become overwhelmed by children whose behaviour may sometimes be difficult and challenging
- be flexible and non-judgmental
- be able to negotiate and compromise
- have a sense of humour!
For certain care options there are qualities and special requirements needed in addition to these – you'll find these on the care options page.
