Similar to the Mockingbird approach, Hampshire is providing a new kind of support for foster carers and children they care for, in the form of a support network known as the Hampshire Hive. The Hampshire Hive will give our foster carers and children they care for guidance, practical and emotional support.
There are a number of Hives within Hampshire with each Hive consisting of between 15 and 20 fostering families who are linked together, with one foster carer known as the Hive Carer Support Worker acting as the central point.
The Hive will become a support bubble for the foster families and the child/ren they care for. Over time families within the Hive will develop close relationships, like friends and family. The Hive Carer Support Worker will identify any potential challenges and offer support to foster carers in their Hive to ensure the child/ren they care for remain in a stable home.
As members of a Hive, you will be known as a Hive Family. The Hive Carer Support Worker will take on the role of co-ordinating and supporting the families that are part of their Hive. They will respond to all sorts of fostering concerns and offer you advice when you need it, plus co-ordinate regular group meetings and family events for everyone in your family. As a group, the Hive will support with the sleepover and day care needs of Hive families, and the Hive Carer Support Worker can help with making arrangements.
What will it be like as a Hive Family?
Support groups and family events
Regular support group meetings will be arranged for all Hive Families in your Hive to meet to share experiences, advice and learn together. This will be in addition to the other support groups outside of Hives which you are still able to attend.
The Hive Carer Support Worker will also arrange social events for you and your whole family to attend throughout the year. The aim will be to bring everyone together, have fun and develop positive relationships for birth children and children in your care. Over time support groups and events in the Hive will evolve and develop into a network of support.
One-to-one support
One-to-one support will be provided by the Hive Carer Support Worker, as a mentor or buddy to share information and advice, and to help overcome any potential placement challenges or difficulties.
You will also be offered regular phone catch-ups with your Hive Carer Support Worker, and could interact with other foster carers in the Hive. The Hive Carer Support Worker works flexibly between 7am and 10pm Monday to Saturday. You will be able to discuss with your Hive Carer Support Worker the best times to contact them. This is a different type of support to the Out of Hours Service and Fostering Duty Line, which will still be available in an emergency.
Think you’re ready to take the first step?
Whether you’re ready to start the application process or would just like some more information, we’d love to hear from you.