Unfortunately not every baby is born into a happy home, or even one that can be considered to be appropriate or suitable at all. Other times there are circumstances, or events (such as an accident) that take place that mean that the baby can not live with their parent(s) or guardian.

Should this occur, more often than not the local authorities will look to step in and house the child in foster care.

Foster Care is generally considered to be a temporary arrangement, whilst the issues preventing the child returning home are being resolved, or whilst the child is waiting to be adopted. The length of time spent in these foster homes can vary quite significantly.

Fostering babies is somewhat of a different task to that of an older child or teenager, due to the amount of extra care and attention that they require. It is also important that the baby is also encouraged to develop, such as in terms walking and talking.

If helping babies at their time of need is something that interests you, and you can provide a safe and secure environment, then becoming a foster carer is something that may be for you.

If you are interested, the first step is often to contact your local Fostering Agency and arrange a meeting with them. Here you can ask any questions you have and of course see what they can offer you. On the other side of the desk they’ll be able to assess your initial suitability.

So go on, what have you got to lose? You could make a great impact on the lives of those who genuinely need something positive to happen.