Become a Foster-Friendly Workplace: What it means and how to sign up

Recently, we conducted a LinkedIn poll to determine how many people worked for organisations that were fostering friendly. The results were polarized: respondents either fully understood what "fostering friendly" meant (87%) and how it impacted employees in their workplace, or they had no idea (13%).

In today’s competitive job market, companies seek new ways to stand out and create a supportive, inclusive work environment. With almost 40 per cent of foster carers combining fostering with other work, those who do say that a supportive employer can make all the difference, enabling them to balance employment with looking after children.

But what does this mean, and how can your organisation join this important initiative?

A fostering friendly workplace is one which recognises and supports the unique needs of employees who are foster carers.

This commitment includes;

·      Understanding the challenges foster carers face.

·      Offering flexible working arrangements.

·      Providing additional leave for fostering-related activities.

·      Developing a culture of empathy and support.

By implementing these practices, companies not only help their employees balance work and fostering responsibilities, but also contribute to the well-being of foster children who need stable, loving homes.

Furthermore, the benefits of being a fostering friendly workplace extend beyond just the foster carers. It promotes a culture of care and social responsibility within the organisation, enhancing employee morale and loyalty and positions the company as a socially responsible entity, which can attract like-minded talent and customers who value corporate social responsibility.

To become a fostering friendly workplace, businesses sign up to The Fostering Network's ‘Fostering Friendly Scheme’. The begins with an email to The Fostering Network;  fosteringfriendly@fostering.net. The Fostering Network provide a template HR Policy which is then amended to incorporate into existing company policy documents. This can take time, but The Fostering Network are willing to assist at any stage and are happy to speak to any stakeholders in your organisation to help with the process.

When the HR policy document is finalised, it is submitted to The Fostering Network for approval which typically takes one week.

Once approved, employers can display the Fostering Friendly logo with pride. The Fostering Network publish a list of Fostering Friendly employers and new registrants are added to the list and promoted on social media.

And it’s as simple as that! Taking steps to become foster aware can make a significant difference in the lives of foster carers and the children they support, while also enhancing your workplace culture.

Take a look at the register of Foster Friendly workplaces and see whether your organisation is listed by visiting this link : https://www.thefosteringnetwork.org.uk/get-involved/championing-fostering/fostering-friendly

More information about fostering can be found at our webpages: www.rsdfostering.co.uk

If you would like to have an informal chat with one of our Care & Fostering Specialists, please call Paris & Courtney on 01752 717666 or email info@rsdfostering.co.uk and request a call back.

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