What is interim fostering?
Interim fostering involves caring for a baby, child or young person for a few weeks or months while difficulties at home are resolved. Interim fostering is often linked to further assessments of the baby, child or young person and other family members, together with court processes. Interim fostering would mean providing care for up to 24 months.
How interim fostering differs to other types of fostering
Interim fostering can vary from just one night to a few weeks, to several months, or as long as two years. It all depends on the individual circumstances of the child and their family. Afterwards, the child might return to their own family or go into a longer fostering placement or become adopted.
Compared to other kinds of fostering, interim foster carers often may have higher levels of contact with the children’s birth family whilst assessments are underway.

Benefits of interim fostering
Usually, a child needs interim fostering because their families are unable to look after them for a particular time. Some of the reasons why a baby, child or young person may need to go into interim foster care include:
- Their parents or guardians are unwell.
- They may be at risk from harm at home.
- Their parents are finding it difficult to cope with caring for a child at that time.
- The family is going through care proceedings – so the child goes into foster care while decisions are made about who will look after them in the future.

Fostering Allowances
You’ll receive a generous fostering payment for every week a child or young person is in your care, designed to reward your professionalism and commitment.
Interested in becoming a foster carer with FCA Scotland?
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