Fostering Connections in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia | Non-profit organisation

Fostering Connections

Locality: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Phone: +61 1800 013 088

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25.01.2022 Who better to show appreciation and support for foster carers than foster carers? This #FosterCareWeek we asked current carers what message theyd like to share to other carers who are #CaringThroughCOVID19. Children and young people dont stop needing care just because it is a pandemic, and so we encourage carers to enjoy the inspirational and motivating reminders of how valuable they are! Thank you to the incredible carers who have been caring during #COVID19. If youre interested in learning more about foster care call Fostering Connections on 1800 013 088 or visit www.fosteringconnections.com.au

25.01.2022 Are agencies still recruiting foster carers during the COVID-19 crisis? Yes! Behind the scenes foster care workers are working hard to make sure new foster carers are properly trained and supported during the COVID-19 crisis. Accreditation can take between 3 - 6 months, so if youre interested in becoming a foster carer enquire today and hopefully we will be out of isolation by the time you have your first placement!

24.01.2022 Fostering Connections is hosting a Foster Care 101 Facebook live-stream Q&A with a foster care specialist so that you can ask all the questions youve always wanted answered!

24.01.2022 Motivational Monday Weve got some simple but important self-care tips from Child Mind Institute to help parents and carers working through lockdown. Be realistic: practice forgiveness and self-compassion... Set boundaries: look after yourself while supporting others Reconnect with things you enjoy Look after yourselves and each other! #CaringThroughCOVID

23.01.2022 Did you know that Playgroup Victoria is running FREE Playgroup at Home - Live sessions over zoom? Sessions are interactive to help parents and carers engage in play with their children. Check it out: https://www.playgroup.org.au/playgroup-at-home/

22.01.2022 ITS PRIZE TIME! This year Fostering Connections asked current carers to share their thoughts on #CaringthroughCOVID19 and the #ValueofCarers. Their responses blew us away, there were so many stories of the incredible resilience, joy, positivity, and compassion. Most of all, we saw how much carers value the children and young people in their care, and how hard they work to help families come back together. Thank you to everyone who participated and shared their stories.... Here are the quotes from those carers who each won a $100 Myers voucher, we hope you enjoy them as much as we did!

20.01.2022 Foster Care Week 2020! Foster carers have done an incredible job caring for children and young people through COVID-19. Fostering Connections is celebrating the wonderful work they do to create safe and stable environments that let children and young people thrive. Theres lots on so find out how you get involved.... https://bit.ly/2YZzufF #ValueOfCarers #FosterCareWeek #CaringThroughCOVID19

20.01.2022 It has been a challenging time for #FosterCarers in #Victoria as they have been #CaringThroughCOVID19. Foster Care Association of Victoria have launched the Carer Assistance Program, a free and confidential therapeutic phone support service for all of Victoria’s foster carers. The new program will provide therapeutic phone support aimed at improving the mental health and wellbeing of foster carers. ... Learn more: www.fcav.org.au/carer-resources/cap

20.01.2022 A message from #fostercarers to foster carers this #FosterCareWeek. You are all doing an incredible job #CaringThroughCOVID19. If youre interested in becoming a foster carer call Fostering Connections on 1800 013 088 or visit http://fosteringconnections.com.au

19.01.2022 Stage 4 Restrictions are now in effect in Metropolitan Melbourne For more information about these restrictions and how they may affect your household visit: https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus

19.01.2022 Frequently Asked Friday If your family is growing or changing while you are caring for a child, thats totally fine! Just remember to let your agency know if any new people may be around or helping to provide care, as they will need to undergo some checks. Always check-in with your agency if youre not sure! If you have a question about being a foster carer, give us a call on 1800 013 088 or visit fosteringconnection.com.au for more information

19.01.2022 This #FosterCareWeek we were lucky enough to speak with carers and young people with lived experiences of care. This interview series highlights the incredible work of foster carers, the impact that great carers can have on the lives of children and young people, and what young people with care experiences have to say about the important role that carers can play. Our first interview is all about carers and we are thrilled to share their words with you. ... #CaringThroughCOVID19 #ValueOfCarers www.fosteringconnections.com.au

18.01.2022 Celebrate #NAIDOCWeek2020 with a music special for NAIDOC today! A fantastic opportunity to share some of Australia’s most talented and exciting Indigenous musicians with children in your care. Broadcasting on-air from 2-3pm on ABC Radio Melbourne and Victoria and streamed on Facebook and YouTube from 8-9pm on ABC Radio Melbourne and Victoria.

16.01.2022 Foster carers are usually a lot older, but I signed up when I was 22. Five years later, its still something that I am passionate about. Anyone over the age of 21 who can provide a safe, caring home can apply to be a foster carer. Janna became a foster carer at 22, choosing to offer emergency and respite care because it fit around her lifestyle and work schedule. You can find out more about the different types of foster care and which one might work for you at www.fosteringconnections.com.au or give us a call on 1800 013 088

15.01.2022 Calling Victorian foster carers! As part of #FosterCareWeek, Fostering Connections, Victorias foster care recruitment campaign, invites Victorian-based foster carers to share their thoughts on the #ValueOfCarers. All foster carers who submit a response will be eligible for one of five $100 Myers vouchers. Foster carers have done an incredible job caring for children and young people through COVID-19. Fostering Connections is celebrating the wonderful work they do t...o create safe and stable environments that let children and young people thrive. Please note this competition is only open to accredited foster carers. Enter the draw www.surveymonkey.com/r/FosterCareWeek #CaringThroughCOVID19

14.01.2022 Liz and Daniel have been foster carers for over two years, and have loved seeing their own children embracing children in need of a safe, supportive home.

14.01.2022 "These kids should be heard and especially with COVID right now." A new report from Berry Street and Social Ventures Australia has highlighted the need for investment in early intervention to prevent an increase in children moving into out-of-home care as a result of the pandemic. You can read a summary of the report here: https://bit.ly/3fFDjw5

14.01.2022 Frequently Asked Fridays Having a disability would not disqualify you from being a foster carer. The agency that you enquire with will be able to provide further information. If you have a question about becoming a foster carer, give us a call on 1800 013 088 or visit www.fosteringconnections.com.au

13.01.2022 Frequently Asked Fridays Wondering what happens if you need to travel inter-state while a foster child is in your care? It is possible to travel inter-state with a child in care if permission is granted by DHHS or their guardian. Approvals are considered case by case and can be further discussed with your agency. ... If you have a question about becoming a foster carer, give us a call on 1800 013 088 or visit www.fosteringconnections.com.au See more

13.01.2022 This #WearitPurple Day, Fostering Connections is recognising the role that the #LGBTIQA community has played in creating safe homes for those who, because of stigma or safety, could not stay in their homes. We are reminded of our wonderful time at ChillOut this year, where the LGBTIQA community helped share these messages of hope for children and young people in care! Whatever your background, you can help create a welcoming and safe place for a young person. ... Enquire today on 1800 013 088 or visit www.fosteringconnections.com.au

12.01.2022 A message from Luke Donnellan MP to all foster carers who are creating a supportive and stable environment for children and young people during COVID-19. You are doing an incredible job. #ValueOfCarers #CaringThroughCOVID19 #FosterCareWeek

12.01.2022 Frequently Asked Fridays It takes a village to raise a child. Being a foster carer is being part of that village and its totally fine for you to have support from other people - like your partner or your parents - to help provide care. People in your support network may have to undergo checks, but your agency will help you all through that process. If you have a question about becoming a foster carer, give us a call on 1800 013 088 or visit fosteringconnections.com.au

11.01.2022 Frequently Asked Fridays Fostering is very flexible, and depending on your capacity you may wish to work with the agency to change your accreditation from respite to long-term for example, to be best able to support the children in your care. If you have a question about becoming a foster carer, give us a call on 1800 013 088 or visit www.fosteringconnections.com.au

10.01.2022 This #FosterCareWeek Fostering Connections is highlighting the wonderful work carers do to create stable and safe environments for children and young people in care. We asked agencies what, in their experience, made for a great foster carer. #ValueOfCarers #CaringThroughCOVID19

10.01.2022 This #FosterCareWeek we were lucky enough to speak with young people with lived experiences of care. This interview series highlights the incredible work of foster carers, the impact that great carers can have on the lives of children and young people, and what young people with care experiences have to say about the important role that carers can play. #CaringThroughCOVID19 #ValueOfCarers www.fosteringconnections.com.au

10.01.2022 Frequently Asked Fridays Household members over the age of 18 must attend Shared Lives training. If you have teenagers living in your home who would be able to attend, please discuss with your agency as this may be beneficial for your household as well. All regions have adapted training to abide by COVID-safe operating plans. If you have a question about becoming a foster carer, give us a call on 1800 013 088 or visit www.fosteringconnections.com.au

10.01.2022 Foster carers are needed from all different backgrounds, including those who have children. Many children will benefit from other children with whom they can socialise and develop additional strong relationships but some may need that extra attention and time spent together. Give us a call 1800 013 088 to discuss your options with a foster care specialist or visit: www.fosteringconnections.com.au

09.01.2022 "Our foster carers become part of our extended family and we consider them part of the community. Theyre a vital resource. Regional foster care agencies like Njernda in Echuca are always on the look out for people to join their family of foster carers. They provide plenty of training and support to make sure carers and children feel safe and loved If youre interested in becoming a foster carer but not sure where to start, give us a call on 1800 013 088

09.01.2022 #FosterCareWeek 2020 is here! This year we are celebrating the amazing work foster carers are doing to create safe and stable environments for children and young people during COVID-19. Find out how you can get involved: https://bit.ly/3m7yTlR 13-19 September. ... #CaringThroughCOVID19 #ValueOfCarers

09.01.2022 Thinking about becoming a foster carer? Curious to learn more? Fostering Connections is hosting a Foster Care 101 Q&A live-stream with a foster care specialist to answer all the questions you wanted to know but hadnt had a chance to ask. #FosterCareWeek2020

08.01.2022 "If there is hope in the future, there is power in the present" Isiah Dawe founded mentorship program ID. Know Yourself to help for Aboriginal children who have an experience of Out of Home Care to become more empowered. Here, he talks about how the program has adapted to COVID-19, and keeping communities together while in isolation.

08.01.2022 Frequently Asked Fridays If you are preparing to care for #Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, it is important that you support them to maintain connection to culture. Learn more about what's involved in becoming a foster carer: www.fosteringconnections.com.au/whats-involved... Or download our info pack for caring for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children: https://bit.ly/3kBGw1T

08.01.2022 Children's Week 2020 is upon us and this year the theme celebrates the right of all children to choose their own friends and safely connect with others. Children and young people have spent more time online this year than ever before and it is important we are able to keep them safe online. Here are some things you can do to keep kids safe:... Check kids movie reviews before they watch it: www.commonsensemedia.org Learn more about eSafety and COVID-19 for children: www.esafety.gov.au/key-issues/covid-19

08.01.2022 Frequently Asked Fridays Children and young people need a safe, stable, and caring adult in their life and a single person can definitely provide that. If you are able to provide that then you can begin your journey as a foster carer. Individuals from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply to be foster carers. If you have a question about becoming a foster carer, give us a call on 1800 013 088 or visit fosteringconnections.com.au

07.01.2022 Today is National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Childrens Day. Today we celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children as the #EldersOfTomorrow, recognising that they carry and share unique and important wisdom and knowledge of the land and waters we live and play on. Listening to the ideas, experiences and stories of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children today will help shape a better, more equitable and culturally-safe future for all Australia...ns. For more information about Childrens Day: https://aboriginalchildrensday.com.au/childrens-day-2020/

07.01.2022 It it a myth that only couples can foster a child. We need foster carers from a wide variety of backgrounds to support children and young people in out-of-home care. If youre interested in learning more about foster care call Fostering Connections on 1800 013 088 or visit www.fosteringconnections.com.au... #FosterCareWeek

07.01.2022 Frequently Asked Fridays Foster carers don't do it alone. Once you start foster caring you will have the support of your agency along the way. In addition to financial support, as a foster carer you will receive individualised support known as ‘supervision’. This is a standard process across Victoria which allows foster carers to receive thorough support whilst they care for children. Your agency will walk you through this in more detail. ... If you have a question about becoming a foster carer, give us a call on 1800 013 088 or visit www.fosteringconnections.com.au See more

07.01.2022 One common myth about #fostercare is that carers need to commit years of their life to being a carer. What most people don't know is that foster care is incredibly flexible and works to suit your personal circumstances. Respite or emergency carers are always needed to provide a safe place for a young person or children for a few days or even just one night. Even if you only ever foster one child you have made a difference in that child's life, their family and your ...community. Learn more about the types of care and how they suit your circumstances: https://bit.ly/3nLMW1j See more

06.01.2022 Frequently Asked Fridays Wondering if you will still be able to have guests over to your home whilst a child is in your care? Yes, you can, however important that you discuss having guests with your agency so that they may run relevant police checks if needed. ... If you have a question about becoming a foster carer, give us a call on 1800 013 088 or visit www.fosteringconnections.com.au See more

05.01.2022 Everyone aged 12 or older is now required to wear a face covering when leaving home in Melbourne and the Mitchell Shire. Here are a few tips to help get kids feeling comfortable and in control when it comes to wearing masks and keeping their community safe

04.01.2022 It is a myth that you cannot care for #Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander children or young people if you yourself are not from that community. While ideally Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people will be cared for within community, sometimes this is not possible. The most important that is that all children have a safe, stable and loving home where they can thrive.... Learn more about becoming a foster carer: www.fosteringconnections.com.au #NAIDOCWeek2020

04.01.2022 Foster carers have done an incredible job caring for children and young people through COVID-19. Fostering Connections spoke with agencies across #Victoria to hear from staff who work directly with children, young people, and foster carers about the positive contributions carers have made. #ValueOfCarers #FosterCareWeek #CaringThroughCOVID19

04.01.2022 When you become a foster carer, you join a community. You have support from your agency, and from Foster Care Association of Victoria. Got a question about foster care? Give us a call on 1800 013 088 or visit www.fosteringconnections.com.au

03.01.2022 Today we celebrate #NAIDOCWeek2020. NAIDOC 2020 invites all Australians to embrace the true history of this country a history which dates back thousands of generations. To kick start the week, join our friends Wathaurong Aboriginal Co Op for a virtual flag raising ceremony.

02.01.2022 Motivation Monday! Check out our latest blog to see how some of Victorias exceptional regional foster care agencies have been rising to every challenge that 2020 has thrown their way. These are just some of the positive and proactive initiatives across our sector that have led to wonderful outcomes for the community! Thank you to Mallee District Aboriginal Services - Mildura, Swan Hill, Kerang, Robinvale, Gippsland & East Gippsland Aboriginal Cooperative Ltd, Mallee Acc...ommodation and Support Program MASP, Anglicare Victoria, Mallee Family Care, and Cafs who took the time to share their triumphs with us. https://fosteringconnections.com.au//creativity-and-commit

02.01.2022 Foster carers are people in our community who temporarily provide safe, nurturing homes for children and young people who cannot live with their families. As a foster carer of an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander child or young person, you can support them in having a nurturing and positive life experience that is culturally, socially, and emotionally safe. Our new information pack includes key information about getting started, helping maintain and nurture a child’s conn...ections to culture and Country, and working with Aboriginal foster care agencies. Learn more about how you can support a child and family today. Download info pack: https://bit.ly/3kBGw1T

02.01.2022 Adjusting to the new COVID-19 restrictions across Victoria has been tough Its important to look after yourself when times get tough. Black Dog Institute have a self-care plan that you can download to help you build elf-care into your daily routine.