Respite fostering
Respite carers provide a planned short break for foster children and their primary carers — a vital part of the fostering support network.
Respite fostering means providing planned short breaks for children who are already placed with another foster family. The primary carer gets a much-needed rest; the child has a positive, familiar experience with a trusted family. Respite is an essential part of keeping the whole fostering network sustainable.
It is also one of the most flexible types of fostering — and an excellent entry point for people who want to start fostering without immediately committing to a full-time placement.
What to expect
What respite fostering involves
Building regular relationships
Respite placements work best when the child knows the respite carer. You may care for the same children regularly over months or years, building your own warm, familiar relationship with them alongside their primary family.
Working with more than one team
The child's own SSW leads their care. You will work alongside them and your own Wholistic SSW to ensure smooth handovers, consistent routines, and clear communication. Good coordination is key.
Flexible scheduling
Some respite carers offer one weekend a month; others step in at shorter notice when another carer needs an unexpected break. You agree the frequency and structure that works for your household, and it can change over time.
Your support
How Wholistic supports respite carers
Your own dedicated SSW
Even as a respite carer, you have a named supervising social worker. They support you, ensure you are prepared for each stay, and are accessible between visits whenever you need them.
Full training programme
Respite carers complete the same preparation training as all Wholistic carers. You are a valued and full part of the team, not a secondary service.
Allowances per stay
Respite carers receive a weekly fostering allowance for each night a child is in their care, paid reliably and on time every 2 weeks. Your contribution is recognised and fairly rewarded.
Could respite fostering work for you?
If you are not ready for a full-time placement but want to make a real difference, respite could be the perfect place to start. Let's have a chat.