As a Trafford foster carer you have access to support, training and resources designed to help you and the children you care for. This page brings together the key tools and information you may need.
Practical support
Your supervising social worker
Every foster carer has a supervising social worker. They visit regularly to provide advice, guidance and support.
Contact your supervising social worker directly if you have any questions about a placement or your fostering role.
Peer support
You can connect with other foster carers for advice and encouragement.
- Mentors and buddies – one-to-one support from an experienced carer
- Ambassadors – carers who lead groups and events
- Support groups – monthly meetings with other local carers
- Independent Foster Carer Association (FCA)
- Mockingbird programme – an additional support system for groups of families. You can find more information about Mockingbird in this video
Training and development
Fostering is a learning journey for the whole family.
- Every carer has a personal development plan reviewed each year
- Training is available face to face, online and through e-learning
- Birth children can also join some sessions
Resources
- Guide to fostering in Greater Manchester
- Greater Manchester Foster Carer Promise
- FosterTalk membership, including 24/7 legal, medical and counselling helplines
- Trafford fostering policies link to the policies section
Discounts and benefits
- Max Card can be used at venues across the UK to get free or reduced admission.
- Blue Light card Gives discounts online and on the high street.