Fostering wellbeing: Placing foster carers centre stage

This article reports on an evaluation of the Fostering Wellbeing programme, a set of five themed masterclasses delivered in two local authorities to a group of multi-disciplinary professionals in the team around the foster child. The programme also included the development of the role of the foster carer Pioneer. The evaluation found benefits of the multi-disciplinary training, but attendance and commitment from some professionals were limited. The programme demonstrated some traction in bringing the foster carer into the team around the child and strengthening their ability to advocate for the child. The Pioneer role showed promise but was yet to be fully embedded. Plain Language Summary This article reports on an evaluation of the Fostering Wellbeing programme. The programme involved foster carers being trained along with other professionals working with the child in care. It also involved the development of a Pioneer foster carer role. The training with other professionals aimed to bring the foster carer into the team as a valued member. The Pioneer role aimed to help other professionals to understand the foster carer role. The evaluation found benefits of the training, but attendance by some professionals was limited. The programme demonstrated some success in bringing the foster carer into the team around the child, strengthening their ability to ensure the child’s voice is heard. The Pioneer role showed promise but has yet to be fully developed.