Respite foster care (also called short break fostering) is a temporary care arrangement, usually lasting from one night to a week. It’s used when a child’s regular carers — whether foster parents or birth families — need a planned break.
Wherever possible, we arrange respite with the same carer each time. This way, children can build a relationship with their respite carer, making transitions feel safe and familiar.
It’s about continuity, not disruption.
Caring for children — especially those with trauma histories or additional needs — is deeply meaningful, but it can also be demanding. Everyone needs time to rest. Respite care gives foster carers the essential space to look after their own wellbeing, helping them come back refreshed and able to give their best.
It also helps:
In short, respite makes long-term care more sustainable for everyone involved.
As a respite carer, you’ll provide short, planned periods of care for a child or young person. Your role is to create a warm, consistent, and nurturing environment, even if it’s just for a weekend or a few days.
You might:
You’ll be a familiar face — a safe and trusted adult the child can come back to again and again.
At Wholistic, we approach respite care through a trauma-informed and therapeutic lens. We support our carers to understand how even brief placements can be opportunities to:
Every interaction matters. That’s why we invest in helping you understand the needs behind a child’s behaviour — so even a short stay feels safe and supportive.
Respite carers receive the same high-quality support as all Wholistic carers. That includes:
You’re not just filling a gap. You’re an essential part of the child’s care team — and we’ll equip you for success.
Many respite carers support children with complex or additional needs. This might include:
You don’t need prior experience — just openness, patience, and a willingness to learn. We provide training and support to help you feel confident and capable.
One of the unique strengths of respite fostering is that it can be arranged around your schedule. Whether you’re available during school holidays, weekends, or certain months of the year, we work with you to create a plan that’s realistic and sustainable.
Respite care is perfect for people who want to make a meaningful difference but can’t commit to full-time fostering just yet.
Do I have to become a full-time foster carer?
No — but some respite carers do later choose to become long-term carers once they’ve gained confidence and experience. If that’s ever of interest, we’ll guide you through the process.
Can I choose how often I provide care?
Yes. We’ll always check your availability in advance and match you with placements that suit your capacity.
Is respite care right for me if I work full-time?
It can be. Many respite carers balance fostering with other responsibilities. We’ll explore what’s possible based on your availability and lifestyle.
You might be a good fit for respite fostering if:
If you’re curious about respite fostering, reach out to us for a warm, no-pressure conversation. We’ll help you understand what’s involved, what training you’ll receive, and how to take the first step.
👉 Enquire now and help make foster care sustainable — one peaceful weekend at a time.
