The two most common types of fostering in the UK are short term and long term. While there are similarities between the two, there are also significant differences.
Short-term fostering is when a child or young person stays with a foster family for an undefined period of time. This may be for a few weeks or months, but can sometimes extend beyond 12 months. The main purpose is to give the responsible authority time to decide on the longer-term plan for the child or young person.
To learn more about fostering in general, read our article: What is Fostercare?
Short-term fostering provides stability while the responsible authority develops a longer-term plan for the child or young person. In some cases, the decision may be for the child or young person to remain with the same foster carers on a long-term (permanence) basis. (See our article on Long-Term Fostering for more detail.)
Flexibility is a key requirement for foster carers who provide short-term care, because the duration of care needed is uncertain. Carers also need to offer security and stability while being sensitive and honest with the child or young person, helping them understand that the longer-term plan has not yet been made and may involve moving on.
Carrie and Ollie Davies, experienced foster carers with New Chapters, shared how this balance works in practice:
“We have been fostering for 12 years and we are currently providing short-term foster care for a sibling group of two young children. This was an emergency request for fostering and our priority was to keep them together and safe, but also to provide them with consistency throughout the court process and potential reunification with birth family. Whilst the children have been in our care, we have facilitated Family Time on a weekly basis, ensuring that the children’s educational and health needs are being met, alongside allowing them to enjoy clubs, days out and holidays. This is all made easier with the training provided and fantastic support we get from New Chapters.”
Short-term fostering is not just about providing a temporary home. It gives children and young people stability and support at a critical stage in their lives. Foster carers can also help the responsible authority make child-centred decisions by encouraging the child or young person to share their wishes and feelings, which must be taken into account when longer-term plans are made.
During their time in short-term foster care, children benefit from:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between short-term and long-term fostering?
Short-term fostering is usually temporary, supporting a child or young person until they can return home, move to adoption, transfer to another foster home, or remain on a long-term (permanence) basis.
How long does short-term fostering last?
There is no set duration. Short term fostering often last weeks or months, while the longer-term plan is finalised. It is usual for short-term fostering to be less than 12 months.
Do children in short-term foster care still see their birth families?
Yes. Where it is safe and in the child or young person’s best interests, contact with birth family members will happen as the longer term plan may be for the child to return home.
What support do short-term foster carers receive?
Carers receive regular supervision, training, financial allowances, and access to a support network of other foster carers. At New Chapters, we also provide therapeutic guidance and 24/7 support. For more detail on the financial aspects of fostering, see our page on Foster Care Pay and Allowances.
Can siblings be placed together in short-term foster care?
Yes. Wherever possible, siblings are placed together to maintain important family bonds.
