The ‘unretiring’ generation- 5 reasons why employers should have a fostering policy

Written by Capstone Foster Care

According to a recent report more than a million people in the UK will choose to continue working past the age of 65, rather than enjoy a relaxing retirement. With so many choosing to remain in the workplace, this should be good news for employers. However, it is also worth noting that this demographic is more likely to look for part time work or want to spend their golden years doing something meaningful.

Here at Capstone Foster Care, a good proportion of our foster carer community comes from the over 50 age group, often their children have left home, and they have the time and means to dedicate to giving back to a vulnerable child – making them ideal foster carer material.

Here are our five top reasons why having a fostering policy is a good idea…

One- Reassurance you can work and foster.

It’s a common misconception that you need to quit your job if you want to foster. Those approaching retirement age might believe they need to choose between continuing to work and deciding to foster. By implementing a fostering policy, you take away your employee’s need to initiate what they might believe to be an awkward conversation.

Two- Set time off to foster.

Again, this mitigates the need for awkward conversation while also meaning everyone is singing from the same hymn sheet. With most children in foster care of school age, it is perfectly feasible for an employee to work and foster at the same time. Sure, there will be days where they need to attend training and meetings, by writing entitlements into policy not only do staff know what they’re entitled to, but it also helps managers to support them better.

Three- Retention of your workforce.

While you may be happy to support those thinking of fostering on a case-by-case basis, as your business grows the likelihood your employees will ‘just know’ this gets less and less. Having a fostering policy makes your stance loud and proud. The knowledge of well tenured staff is invaluable, this shows you value them in return.

Four- Increase your social standing.

These days when individuals are on the hunt for a new job, more and more they want to join an organisation who aligns with their ethical beliefs. Having these types of policy in place is cause for you to put your hand up and show what you believe in along with the causes you support. There is a care crisis in the UK, having a fostering policy shows that you care. So, don’t let it gather dust. Put it in your job benefits, shout about it on your website and socials, do the case studies. This will not only help with retention of your current staff, but support with attraction.

Five- You will not be alone.

True, this isn’t a decision that you can make overnight and implement tomorrow. Writing policy takes time, and you might be fearful of saying the wrong thing. But you will have support every step of the way if you make this venture, being a fostering friendly employer is a government initiative and The Fostering Network have a team dedicated to supporting you on your journey. You can find out more about how to become a fostering friendly employer on their website.

Everyday we see the incredible difference our foster carers make to some of society’s most vulnerable children. We encourage anyone who is able to support these wonderful individuals in anyway they can.