This is one of the most honest things people tell us when they enquire about fostering.
Many people worry about what will happen when a child moves on. They think, "What if I get too attached?" or "I don't know if I could say goodbye."
The truth is, if you're worried about this, it probably means you have the kind of caring heart that children need.
It is normal to get attached
You are not expected to care for children without building a relationship with them.
Children need people who will listen to them, support them, celebrate their achievements, and help them feel safe. It is natural to care about a child when you have shared part of their journey.
Many foster carers will tell you that saying goodbye can be emotional. That is because they have invested time, care, and love into helping a child.
Remember why you started
Fostering is all about helping children move forward.
Sometimes that means helping a child return to their birth family or supporting them until they move to a long-term foster family, live independently, or find another permanent home.
While saying goodbye can be difficult, there is also a sense of pride in knowing you have helped a child through an important part of their life.
You won't be doing it alone
One thing many people do not realise is how much support foster carers receive.
When you foster with your local council, you are part of a wider team. You will have support from social workers, other foster carers, and experienced professionals who understand the challenges and rewards of fostering.
Training helps prepare you
Before you become a foster carer, you will receive training to help you understand what fostering involves, including how children move on from foster families.
The training gives you the chance to learn and ask questions about the parts of fostering that feel worrying or uncertain.
Learn from people who have been there
We know that sometimes the best advice comes from someone who has been in your shoes.
That's why we can put you in touch with experienced foster carers who can share their own experiences and answer your questions honestly.
Many people find it reassuring to hear how other foster carers managed those first goodbyes and why they chose to continue fostering.
Don't let fear stop you from enquiring
Many foster carers felt nervous about saying goodbye before they started. In fact, it is one of the most common concerns we hear.
But many also say that the rewards of helping a child grow, heal, and move forward far outweigh any sadness.
We're here to support you every step of the way, with training, guidance, and the support of experienced foster carers who understand exactly how you feel.
Give us a call on 0300 019 0200 or enquire today
