So here we are, four months into the role of Hive Carer Support Worker and starting to get very busy. After the first couple of weeks of mandatory training and getting to know the systems etc, we were then tasked with developing training materials that we can use with our families in the future. For me, this is about giving people topics to talk about, using real life scenarios that as foster carers we deal with day-in-day-out as opposed to death by PowerPoint which at times, can feel like that.
I currently have a full hive and I am also really lucky to have the Hive Link Carer (HLC) in place and working effectively and providing such valued support to the families. The Gosport HLC is Michelle, a very experienced carer who has been fostering with Hampshire for over 10 years. She was in fact, one of the many amazing carers who helped deliver my Skills to Foster course seven years ago and someone I regularly go to for support and advice.
We have met a few times now as a hive and it’s brilliant to be in a position that enables me to facilitate it. We’ve had some lovely picnics at various locations making the most of the good weather, whilst it lasted! Not only do these meetings allow the carers to get together and have a chat, but it also enables the 20+ children who are part of the hive to meet new people and share their own experiences. To feel part of an extended family, to feel accepted and to feel safe.
As individual families we have all been drawn to the hive for different reasons. Some due to feeling unsupported, feeling lonely, undervalued, out of their depth and some who simply want to be part of a supportive network, allowing themselves and their children to be part of a sociable, fun, family-like group where we all understand the highs as well as the lows. If this is you, then please get in touch with Hampshire Hive because we really do understand how hard things can be at times, for you and the children in your care.
It really feels like the hive is providing the help and support that it was set up to do. The families within the hive are still utilising the other support groups and networks that are already well established in the fostering community, but the hive is about providing that real localised, family like support that many of us miss. This really is working and helping our carers to feel empowered, listened to and respected.
I personally am really looking forward to meeting up with our hive families for lots of fun activities and opportunities to chat, off load and learn throughout the summer. Let’s hope the weather is good to us all!
Don’t forget, if you think that the Hampshire Hive is something you think you may like to be involved in then just speak to your Supervising Social Worker. Alternatively, if you just want to find out more information then contact one of the Hive Carer Support Workers who can happily answer any questions or queries that you might have.
If you are interested in joining the Hampshire Hive, please get in touch. All Hampshire foster carers are welcome, whether you’re newly approved or have been fostering for while. Speak to your Supervising Social Worker for more information or email [email protected]
Article written by foster carer.