When people think about homelessness, they often think about a lack of housing.
But for many young people, what they really need is something deeper: stability, belonging and trusted adults who will support them as they navigate some of life’s biggest challenges.
Across South Gloucestershire, there are young people living in residential care who are ready to move into a family home. Many have experienced trauma, loss or instability in their early lives. While residential care provides important support, a family environment can offer the consistency, relationships and sense of belonging that many young people need to thrive.
That’s where Specialist Foster Carers make all the difference.
More than just a home
Specialist Foster Carers support young people who need extra care, understanding and patience as they move from residential settings into family life.
By providing therapeutic, trauma-informed care, foster carers help young people build confidence, develop positive relationships and gain the skills they need for the future.
For many young people, fostering isn’t just about having somewhere to live. It’s about having someone who believes in them, encourages them and supports them through life’s ups and downs.
It can mean celebrating achievements at school, helping them discover new interests, supporting friendships and providing reassurance during difficult times.
Most importantly, it means giving a young person the opportunity to experience family life and create relationships that can have a lasting impact.
Supporting young people into adulthood
Becoming an adult doesn’t happen overnight.
Many young people continue to rely on family support well into their twenties, whether that’s advice, encouragement or knowing someone is there when they need them.
For young people in foster care, that support is equally important.
That’s why South Gloucestershire Council offers Staying Put arrangements, enabling many young people to continue living with their foster carers beyond their 18th birthday. This provides additional stability and support while they continue their education, find employment, develop independent living skills and prepare for adult life at their own pace.
For some young people, simply knowing they don’t have to face adulthood alone can make all the difference.
Could you support a young person?
We urgently need more Specialist Foster Carers to support young people moving on from residential care, young people like Alex*.
You don’t need previous fostering experience. What matters most is your ability to offer stability, compassion and a safe place where a young person can feel valued and supported.
As a Specialist Foster Carer, you’ll receive comprehensive training, financial support and ongoing guidance from a dedicated team.
In return, you’ll have the opportunity to make a life-changing difference to a young person’s future.
Because every young person deserves more than a roof over their head. They deserve stability, belonging and someone who believes in them.
And they deserve the chance to thrive.
Could you help provide that opportunity?
- Find out more about becoming a Specialist Foster Carer.
- Find out more about fostering Alex
*Name changed for privacy
