Foster carer support

Fostering is a vital and rewarding role, and we are committed to ensuring that our foster carers receive the support they need to provide the highest standard of care for the children and young people they look after. Below is an overview of the support available to all our foster carers.

Monthly Training, Support and Development (TSD) standards virtual workshops being offered

As a newly approved foster carer, it is a requirement that your TSD folder is completed within the first year of fostering.  Our Children and Family workers are now offering monthly virtual sessions which you can attend from the comfort of your own home via Microsoft Teams video call.  Please contact Ina or Chantelle by email  - ina.daugirdaite@coventry.gov.uk or chantelle.allen@coventry.gov.uk or speak to your supervising social worker who will book your place on the workshop.  You will then receive a Teams meeting links via email prior to the session. These sessions will provide some additional support in completing your TSD folder.

The Peer Mentoring scheme

Peer mentoring is a scheme which aims to match potential foster carer applicants with a mentor before they attend Fostering Panel for approval. Mentors can offer moral support to new carers as they have first-hand experience of the joys and challenges being a foster carer can bring. Mentors can offer reassurance, support and guidance when attending panel for the first time and during the first six months when their fostering career begins. We also offer mentors to support any foster carers who might be experiencing a particular difficulty for the first time and may benefit from support by a more experienced foster carer (the mentor). At Coventry City Council, we recognise that the role of a foster carer is both complex and demanding.

This group takes place on the second Friday of each month from 10am - 11:30am. Come along for a chat, to build relationships and network with other carers to support you on your fostering journey. There’s plenty of space for children and babies, with toys and a dedicated sensory room to keep them engaged and happy during the session.

This session is also regularly joined by professionals and organisations offering services and information that may be of interest to foster carers - including representatives from The Fostering Network and Coventry Virtual School.

Coffee Morning: drop-in session at St Michael’s Children’s Centre, Hazel Grove, Bedworth, CV12 9DA

This relaxed and welcoming session with fellow foster carers runs every other Monday (term time only) from 9:30am to 11:00am.
Enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and a biscuit, while you chat, share experiences, and build connections in a supportive environment.
There’s a play area for children, with plenty of space and toys to keep the little ones entertained.

Single foster carers' support group at Moat Family Hub, Moat House Primary School, Deedmore Road, Coventry, CV2 1EQ

This group meets on the last Wednesday of every month, from 9:30am to 11:30am, and is dedicated specifically to single foster carers.
It offers a safe, welcoming, and understanding space to share experiences, build friendships, and support one another on the unique journey of fostering solo.
Whether you're new to fostering or have been doing it for years, you’re warmly invited to come along for a hot drink, a biscuit, and a friendly chat. It’s a chance to connect with others who truly understand what it means to foster on your own - from juggling appointments and managing routines to navigating school meetings and making time for yourself.

Fostering Out-of-Hours Support

We understand that fostering doesn’t stop at the end of the working day. That’s why a member of our support team is always available via our 24/7 out-of-hours helpline. If an urgent situation arises outside of normal office hours, you can contact the helpline for immediate advice and guidance.