The experiences of foster carers in their care of children with developmental differences

Children under five have rapid growth and development, making this a critical time for brain development. Care and experiences during this period can have a lasting impact on health, wellbeing and developmental progress and outcomes. Responsive care, loving relations and access to treatment, therapies, and support is essential for children in care with developmental delays and/or additional needs.

While research and policy often focus on school-age children and their carers, which of course, is vital, very little research is focused on young children and their carers.

Supporting a young child with a developmental difference may bring additional demands and joy. One of the complexities I have supported families with is the multiple health referrals, appointments and services, and co-ordinating health care for varying and complex needs. Children who received a range of assessments and support also experienced increased risk of miscommunication, duplication and error.

As a nurse specialist, I sought out additional education and learning opportunities to support me with these complexities. I have found myself in search for answers through research, to improve understanding of foster carers caring for young children with developmental delays and in turn understanding the social and emotional worlds of these young children. I am also particularly interested in how we can improve specialist nursing teams in supporting young children and their families.

The research project I am carrying out focuses on the experiences and views of foster carers in their care of children with developmental differences. Listening to carers’ stories is not just about research, it’s about recognising and valuing the work they do every day to benefit the lives of children and young people.

Are you an independent fostering agency or social worker interested in supporting foster carers to engage in research?

I’d love to hear from you! Please feel free to get in touch.

To find out more or to get involved, please contact me at [email protected] or https://forms.office.com/e/KXEGpbxBuQ

Stephanie Lindsay is a Specialist Nurse for Children in Care and a doctoral research candidate at The Tavistock & Portman NHS Stephanie Lindsay | LinkedIn