The Blog

Navigating Christmas: Understanding and Supporting Those Facing Challenges

6th December 2024

Christmas is often portrayed as a season of joy, togetherness, and celebration. But for many, the festive period can also be a time of emotional difficulty and reflection. While holiday songs, decorations, and gatherings fill the air with cheer, they can also serve as reminders of loss, pain, or unfulfilled expectations. This season can be particularly challenging for those who have lost a loved one, experienced negative memories of past Christmases, or are grappling with feelings of isolation.

Recognising the Broader Challenges

For many adults, the holidays can amplify feelings of grief, especially when they are reminded of loved ones who are no longer with them. Similarly, individuals who associate Christmas with past difficulties, such as strained family relationships or financial hardship, may find this time of year overwhelming. These feelings can be further exacerbated by the societal pressure to feel “happy” and “festive.”

Challenges for Children in Care

For children in foster care, Christmas can bring unique emotional challenges. Many of these children have experienced trauma, neglect, or abuse, and the festive period may serve as a painful reminder of what they’ve lost. The images of perfect family gatherings and traditions seen in the media can clash starkly with their own experiences, creating feelings of sadness, confusion, or even anger.

Some children may struggle with:

• Disrupted Family Dynamics: They may miss their birth families, even if those relationships were complex or harmful.
• Triggers: Holiday traditions or decorations may evoke memories of past trauma or neglect.
• Unrealistic Expectations: They may feel pressure to conform to new traditions while still processing their own grief or trauma.
• Uncertainty: If they’re in a new placement, they might feel unsure about what to expect or how they’ll be included.

How Carers Can Help

As a foster carer, navigating the festive period requires sensitivity, patience, and understanding. Here are some strategies to help:

1. Acknowledge Their Feelings: Let children know it’s okay to feel sad, angry, or confused. Validate their emotions rather than forcing them to feel festive.
2. Create New Traditions: While respecting their past, involve them in creating new traditions that make them feel included and valued.
3. Keep Expectations Realistic: Avoid putting too much pressure on the “perfect” Christmas. Focus on making the day as stress-free and enjoyable as possible.
4. Prepare Them for What to Expect: Explain what your family’s holiday traditions are and invite them to share how they’d like to be involved.
5. Avoid Overwhelming Activities: Large gatherings or unfamiliar traditions can be overwhelming. Plan quiet, smaller-scale activities where they can feel safe.
6. Encourage Communication: Provide opportunities for children to talk about their feelings or memories, whether good or bad.
7. Watch for Signs of Distress: Be mindful of behavioral changes that might indicate they’re struggling and offer additional support when needed.

Resources for Carers

If you’re a carer looking for guidance or support this Christmas, here are some resources to explore:

• The Fostering Network: Offers advice and guidance for foster carers year-round, including during the festive season.
• Childline: A resource for children that they can contact directly if they feel overwhelmed or need someone to talk to. (0800 1111 or www.childline.org.uk)
• Mind: Provides mental health support and coping strategies for those struggling during the holidays. (www.mind.org.uk)
• Local Support Groups: Many communities have support groups for foster carers or families navigating difficult emotions at Christmas.
• Mulberry Foster Care Team: Don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to provide advice, share ideas, or simply listen.

Final Thoughts

Christmas is a time to cherish those around us, but it’s important to remember that not everyone approaches the season with joy. For many, it’s a time of mixed emotions. As carers, you have the unique ability to provide stability, understanding, and love to children who need it most.

Your kindness and care can transform what might be a difficult time into a season of healing and connection. By offering compassion and creating a safe environment, you’re helping children in care build new, positive memories that can last a lifetime. Thank you for everything you do to make Christmas, and every day, brighter for those in your care.

We are growing our team!

14th November 2024

Job Description

Job Title: Part-Time Accounting Clerk

Location:

Mulberry Foster Care,

Phocle Green Business Park,

Ross on Wye,

HR97XU

Job Type:

Part-time (2-3 days per week)

Salary Range:

£24,000 – £30,000 per annum (pro rata, depending on experience and qualifications)

Job Summary:

Mulberry Foster Care is seeking an experienced bookkeeper to support our financial operations on a part-time basis. The bookkeeper will manage invoicing, payroll, and liaise with our external accountants and commissioning team. This role is ideal for someone with strong bookkeeping experience who values flexibility in their schedule.

Key Responsibilities:

• Invoicing & Payroll: Prepare and manage invoicing for foster care services, ensuring timely payments to carers and staff.

• Financial Recording: Maintain accurate financial records in line with accounting principles and agency standards.

• Collaboration: Work closely with external accountants for audits, end-of-year reporting, and tax filings.

• Support for Commissioning Team: Assist the commissioning team with budget management and tracking expenses related to fostering placements.

• Accounts Reconciliation: Perform monthly reconciliations of bank statements, invoices, and expenses.

• Expense Management: Process staff expenses, ensuring compliance with agency policies.

Requirements:

• Experience in bookkeeping or finance, preferably within social care or a related sector.

• Proficiency with bookkeeping software (e.g., QuickBooks, Xero) and MS Office, particularly Excel.

• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.

• Ability to work both independently and within a team.

• Strong communication skills for coordinating with accountants and agency departments.

Benefits:

• Competitive pro-rata salary based on experience.

• Flexibility of 2-3 days per week.

• Supportive, collaborative team environment.

• Generous Annual leave entitlement.

• Office based in picturesque rural setting.

• Family orientated employer.

Closing Date 16 December 2024

Contact jane.carver@mulberryfostercare.co.uk for an application form.

Join our Team!

4th October 2024

Are you a passionate social worker seeking a fulfilling career in a supportive and therapeutic environment? Look no further than Mulberry Foster Care, nestled in the picturesque countryside of Ross-on-Wye. We're excited to announce a fantastic opportunity for a Supervising Social Worker to join our team and be part of something truly extraordinary.

At Mulberry Foster Care, we believe in making a real difference in the lives of children and families. That's why we've created a nurturing and supportive environment that combines the beauty of nature with top-notch therapeutic resources. Here's what sets us apart:

1. Beautiful Country Setting: Imagine working in a tranquil countryside setting, where greenery abounds and fresh air invigorates. Our office in Ross-on-Wye provides the perfect backdrop for meaningful work.
2. Capped Caseload of 8 Families: We prioritise quality over quantity, ensuring that each social worker can dedicate ample time and attention to every family under their care.
3. Generous Annual Leave entitlement: Full time members of staff recieve 30 days leave plus Bank Holidays. We also provide an option to purchase annual leave.
4. Family focused employers: We know that family life can often have an impact on work. The constant juggle can be daunting. At Mulberry we believe in allowing our staff time to attend Christmas plays/ teachers evening etc without having to worry about taking leave.
5. Comprehensive Therapeutic Support: At Mulberry Foster Care, we offer a range of therapeutic resources right on-site, including play therapy, mentoring, in-house systemic family therapy, adventure plus activities, and a sensory room. Additionally, we provide external access to equine therapy for those who would benefit from this unique approach.
6. Outstanding OFSTED Rating: Our commitment to excellence has been recognized by OFSTED, with a rating of "Outstanding" in all areas. This reflects our dedication to providing the highest standard of care to the children and families we serve.
7. Social Worker-Created Agency: Mulberry Foster Care was founded by social workers who wanted to create an agency that truly prioritises the well-being of its staff and families. We believe in supporting our team so they can in turn support others.
8. Tailored Incentives: In addition to a highly competitive salary based on experience, we offer incredible tailored incentives, including private healthcare, to ensure our team feels valued and appreciated.
9. On call payment: Whilst the frequency of being on call at Mulberry is not high, we pay a monthly payment to compensate for this.
10. Be Part of Something Unique: By joining Mulberry Foster Care, you'll be part of a team that is reshaping the landscape of foster care, one family at a time. Together, we're creating positive change and making a lasting impact on the lives of vulnerable children.

Take the Step, Make a Difference: If you're ready to take the next step in your career and make a real difference in the lives of children and families, we invite you to join Mulberry Foster Care. Together, we can create brighter futures and build stronger communities.

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to be part of something truly unique. Apply now and embark on a rewarding journey with Mulberry Foster Care. Your passion and dedication can change lives.

For more information and to request a job application, please email jane.carver@mulberryfostercare.co.uk or contact us on 01989 550955 to find out more!

Mulberry are recruiting a Social Worker to join our team!

3rd October 2024

Are you a passionate social worker seeking a fulfilling career in a supportive and therapeutic environment? Look no further than Mulberry Foster Care, nestled in the picturesque countryside of Ross-on-Wye. We're excited to announce a fantastic opportunity for a Supervising Social Worker to join our team and be part of something truly extraordinary.

At Mulberry Foster Care, we believe in making a real difference in the lives of children and families. That's why we've created a nurturing and supportive environment that combines the beauty of nature with top-notch therapeutic resources. Here's what sets us apart:

1. Beautiful Country Setting: Imagine working in a tranquil countryside setting, where greenery abounds and fresh air invigorates. Our office in Ross-on-Wye provides the perfect backdrop for meaningful work.
2. Capped Caseload of 8 Families: We prioritise quality over quantity, ensuring that each social worker can dedicate ample time and attention to every family under their care.
3. Generous Annual Leave entitlement: Full time members of staff recieve 30 days leave plus Bank Holidays. We also provide an option to purchase annual leave.
4. Family focused employers: We know that family life can often have an impact on work. The constant juggle can be daunting. At Mulberry we believe in allowing our staff time to attend Christmas plays/ teachers evening etc without having to worry about taking leave.
5. Comprehensive Therapeutic Support: At Mulberry Foster Care, we offer a range of therapeutic resources right on-site, including play therapy, mentoring, in-house systemic family therapy, adventure plus activities, and a sensory room. Additionally, we provide external access to equine therapy for those who would benefit from this unique approach.
6. Outstanding OFSTED Rating: Our commitment to excellence has been recognized by OFSTED, with a rating of "Outstanding" in all areas. This reflects our dedication to providing the highest standard of care to the children and families we serve.
7. Social Worker-Created Agency: Mulberry Foster Care was founded by social workers who wanted to create an agency that truly prioritises the well-being of its staff and families. We believe in supporting our team so they can in turn support others.
8. Tailored Incentives: In addition to a highly competitive salary based on experience, we offer incredible tailored incentives, including private healthcare, to ensure our team feels valued and appreciated.
9. On call payment: Whilst the frequency of being on call at Mulberry is not high, we pay a monthly payment to compensate for this.
10. Be Part of Something Unique: By joining Mulberry Foster Care, you'll be part of a team that is reshaping the landscape of foster care, one family at a time. Together, we're creating positive change and making a lasting impact on the lives of vulnerable children.

Take the Step, Make a Difference: If you're ready to take the next step in your career and make a real difference in the lives of children and families, we invite you to join Mulberry Foster Care. Together, we can create brighter futures and build stronger communities.

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to be part of something truly unique. Apply now and embark on a rewarding journey with Mulberry Foster Care. Your passion and dedication can change lives.

For more information and to request a job application, please email jane.carver@mulberryfostercare.co.uk or contact us on 01989 550955 to find out more!

Obtaining Mortgages as a Foster Carer: A Comprehensive Guide

3rd September 2024

Foster care is a noble and rewarding path, offering care and stability to children who need it the most. However, when it comes to financial matters, especially obtaining a mortgage, foster carers have historically faced challenges. The primary obstacle has often been the way lenders view foster care income. Thankfully, the landscape is changing, and recent developments, such as Halifax's decision to include foster care income in their affordability calculations, signal a positive shift for foster carers. In this blog post, we'll explore the intricacies of obtaining a mortgage as a foster carer, including the challenges, recent changes, and practical steps you can take to secure the best mortgage deal.

The Challenges of Securing a Mortgage as a Foster Carer

Traditionally, securing a mortgage as a foster carer has been difficult due to the way lenders assess income. Foster care income is unique in that it is often provided by local authorities or fostering agencies, and it can fluctuate based on the number of children in care or the needs of those children. Additionally, a significant portion of foster care income is tax-free, which can make it seem less substantial on paper than it actually is.

Lenders, historically focused on regular, taxable income, have been hesitant to consider foster care income as reliable. This reluctance stems from the perceived variability and uncertainty associated with fostering, leading to higher barriers for foster carers looking to buy a home or remortgage an existing property.

Halifax’s Groundbreaking Decision

In a significant move that could set a precedent for the mortgage industry, Halifax recently announced that they would begin accepting foster care income in their affordability calculations. This decision, effective from 29th August 2024, is a game-changer for foster carers across the UK.

By recognizing foster care income as part of the affordability assessment, Halifax is acknowledging the vital role foster carers play and the financial realities of fostering. This change means that foster carers can now be assessed on a more accurate representation of their income, increasing their chances of securing a mortgage that reflects their true financial situation.

What This Means for Foster Carers

The inclusion of foster care income in mortgage affordability calculations has several important implications:

Increased Borrowing Power: With a more accurate assessment of income, foster carers may find that they can borrow more, making it easier to purchase a home that meets their needs. This is especially important for larger families or those who require more space to accommodate foster children.

Greater Financial Stability: Access to competitive mortgage products can provide foster carers with the financial stability they need to continue fostering without worrying about the challenges of securing a loan.

Recognition of Foster Care as a Profession: This move also signifies a broader recognition of fostering as a legitimate profession with a steady income, deserving of the same financial opportunities as other professions.

Steps to Secure a Mortgage as a Foster Carer

If you're a foster carer looking to obtain a mortgage, here are some practical steps to help you navigate the process:

1. Research Lenders

While Halifax's decision is a significant step forward, not all lenders may follow suit immediately. It's essential to research and identify lenders who recognize foster care income. Working with a mortgage broker who specializes in helping foster carers can also be advantageous, as they can guide you to the most suitable lenders.

2. Prepare Documentation

Lenders will require proof of income, and as a foster carer, this means gathering documentation from your local authority or fostering agency. Ensure you have records of your income over the past few years, as well as any tax returns that reflect your fostering income.

3. Understand Your Income Structure

Since foster care income can vary, it's crucial to understand how lenders might view your income. Some may average your income over a few years, while others might consider your current income level. Being prepared with a clear picture of your income structure will help in discussions with potential lenders.

4. Consider Your Outgoings

Lenders will assess your affordability based on your income and outgoings. As a foster carer, your expenses may be higher due to the costs associated with caring for children. Be prepared to discuss your financial responsibilities and how they relate to your fostering role.

5. Seek Professional Advice

Given the complexities of fostering income, seeking advice from a financial advisor or mortgage broker with experience in this area is highly recommended. They can help you navigate the specific challenges you might face and ensure that you're getting the best possible mortgage deal.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Mortgages for Foster Carers

Halifax's decision is a significant milestone, but it also highlights the broader need for the mortgage industry to evolve in recognizing diverse income streams. As fostering becomes increasingly recognized as a crucial service, it's hopeful that more lenders will follow Halifax's lead, offering foster carers the financial flexibility and security they deserve.

For foster carers, this development is more than just a financial change; it's an acknowledgment of the invaluable work they do. By making it easier for foster carers to secure mortgages, the industry is opening doors for these dedicated individuals, allowing them to provide stable, loving homes for children in need.

Final Thoughts

Obtaining a mortgage as a foster carer is becoming more accessible, thanks in part to Halifax's pioneering decision to include foster care income in affordability calculations. While challenges remain, the future looks promising as more lenders may begin to recognize the unique financial situation of foster carers.

If you're a foster carer considering a mortgage, now is a great time to explore your options. With the right preparation and guidance, you can find a mortgage that suits your needs and provides the financial stability necessary to continue your important work in fostering.

We are recruiting!

14th August 2024

Job Title: Business Support Officer

Location: Mulberry Foster Care, Herefordshire

Salary: £21,500 - £26,000 (depending on experience)

Contract: Flexible (Part-Time or Full-Time)

Annual Leave: 30 days pro rata

About Mulberry Foster Care:

Mulberry Foster Care is a dedicated and compassionate fostering agency located in the heart of Herefordshire. We are committed to providing safe, nurturing, and supportive environments for children and young people in need of care. Our team works tirelessly to ensure that every child in our care is given the best possible start in life, with a focus on their emotional, educational, and social development.

Role Overview:

We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated individual to join our Business Support Team. The role is dynamic and offers a wide range of responsibilities, from reception duties to assisting our accounts team. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who is keen to develop their skills within a supportive and growing organisation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Reception Cover:

o Manage the front desk, greeting visitors and handling inquiries.

o Answer incoming calls, directing them to the appropriate team members.

o Maintain a welcoming and professional reception area.

• Compliance Checks:

o Assist in ensuring that all necessary compliance documentation is up-to-date.

o Support the team in conducting regular audits to maintain high standards.

• Therapy/Conference Room Inductions and Bookings:

o Coordinate the scheduling and booking of therapy rooms.

o Conduct room inductions for new users and ensure rooms are adequately prepared.

o Ensure conference facility is prepared for training and events

• General Office Administration:

o To respect confidentiality and comply with your requirements under GDPR

o Provide administrative support to the team, including filing, data entry, and document preparation.

o Assist in organising meetings, training sessions, and other events.

o Manage office supplies and coordinate with suppliers as needed.

o To provide support to Senior Management

• Business Support Tasks:

o Handle incoming and outgoing mail.

o Assist in maintaining office records and databases.

o Prepare and distribute internal communications.

o Ability to take minutes of meetings including, team meetings, panel and foster carer support meetings, providing accurate typed records and disseminating records within agreed timescales

o To administrate the coordination of the Agency training programme, upload all information to the Agency IT system including training offered, date, and attendee’s, carers training log etc

• Accounts Team Assistance (with scope for progression):

o Support the accounts team with invoicing and payment processing.

o Assist in reconciling accounts and preparing financial reports.

o Receive mentoring and training to develop skills in finance and accounting.

About You:

• Enthusiastic, with a positive attitude and willingness to learn.

• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.

• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.

• Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritise effectively.

• A team player who is also capable of working independently.

• Experience in an office environment is beneficial but not essential.

• Interest in developing skills within finance and accounts is a plus.

Why Join Mulberry Foster Care?

• Supportive Environment: Work in a caring and supportive environment where your contributions make a difference.

• Professional Development: Opportunity to develop new skills and progress within the company.

• Generous Leave: Enjoy 30 days of annual leave (pro rata) to ensure a healthy work-life balance.

If you are passionate about making a difference and eager to grow in your career, we would love to hear from you. Join us at Mulberry Foster Care and be a part of a team that truly cares.

For more information and for a copy of the Application from, please contact jane.carver@mulberryfostercare.co.uk

Closing Date: 13 September 2024

Mulberry Foster Care Launches Innovative Community Sponsorship Scheme

31st July 2024

Mulberry Foster Care is delighted to announce an exciting new sponsorship initiative designed to give back to the community while offering businesses and individuals the opportunity to utilize our state-of-the-art conference facilities at a reduced rate.

At Mulberry Foster Care, we are dedicated to providing loving, stable, and nurturing homes for children in care. Beyond our core mission, we proudly offer a state-of-the-art sensory room, open to the public, and an incredible conference facility. Our conference space, available for hire at £350 per day, is perfect for meetings, workshops, and events.

In our commitment to support the community, we are introducing a special sponsorship scheme. Businesses or individuals can now hire our premium conference suite for a significantly reduced rate of £135 plus VAT. In return, sponsors will fund nine sessions in our sensory room, which will be allocated to children with therapeutic needs within the community.

Matthew Smith from Mulberry Foster Care shares, "This initiative reflects our dedication to creating a positive impact beyond our immediate circle. By partnering with local businesses and individuals, we can provide essential therapeutic support to children while offering a premier conference space at an attractive rate. It's a win-win for everyone involved."

To take advantage of this incredible offer and make a meaningful difference, please contact Matthew Smith at matthew.smith@mulberryfostercare.co.uk. For more information about our conference suite, visit https://www.mulberryfostercare.co.uk/conference-suite/.

Join us in making a significant impact on the lives of children in our community while benefiting from a top-notch conference facility.

Contact:

Matthew Smith

Mulberry Foster Care

Email: matthew.smith@mulberryfostercare.co.uk

Website: https://www.mulberryfostercare.co.uk/conference-suite/

Mulberry announce fantastic new initiative to pay Foster Carers Council Tax from 2025!

22nd May 2024

This Foster Care Fortnight, we are proud to announce that in a national crisis in recruitment of Foster Carers, Mulberry Foster Care are continuing their ethos of looking after carers so they can look after children in their home by subsidising Foster Carer Council Tax monthly payments.

Background

Mulberry Foster Care, founded by Shaun Burnett and Andrew Robinson, have provided care for many children since the agency’s formation in 2016. Shaun and Andrew, both social workers for over 15 years, have created an agency with children at the forefront of every decision and of every employee and foster carer within the agency.

We are a small independent fostering agency that has our carers and children in care at our heart. We cover 27 local authorities in the Midlands and across Wales. We offer comprehensive support to our carers throughout the process and into their fostering journey.

We have continually expanded our Therapeutic intervention and in October 2023 we overhauled our current building to create a dedicated therapy suite and a conference center. The space comprises of a dedicated play therapy room, mentor room and state of the art sensory room.

The initiative – We look after you so you can look after others.

Last year, the number of Foster Carers leaving the care sector was larger than the number of new recruits. This is a national issue and is causing significant issues for children in care due to Local Authorities not having homes for children in desperate need of them.

Mulberry Foster Care firmly believe in supporting our foster carers who do an incredible job 27/4 365 days a year. Whilst we have historically provided generous allowances, events, training and direct 1:1 support, the time has come to go one step further. Due to the current shortage of Foster Carers, Mulberry are committed to subsidising Foster Carers council tax whilst they have children in placement.

“ It has been evident in the past 12 months that people are not considering becoming a foster carer. This can be for a number of reasons but the current economic uncertainty and cost of living crisis has certainly played a role which is why we are proud to announce this new scheme’ Matthew Smith, Campaign Manager Mulberry Foster Care.

‘As an agency, we strive to always a make a difference. This is consistent with our new scheme to look after our foster carers, so they can look after others in their care. Assisting carers with their council tax bill regardless of where they live, we hope, will enable people to consider taking the step to becoming a foster carer. This scheme also applies to current foster carers who would like to transfer to Mulberry Foster Care’ Shaun Burnett, Director, Mulberry Foster Care.

We are officially live!

4th April 2024

Dear Mulberry Foster Care Community,

We are thrilled to announce the launch of our brand new website! After months of hard work and dedication, we're excited to unveil an online platform designed to enhance your experience with Mulberry Foster Care.

Our mission has always been to provide unwavering support and care to foster children and families. With this new website, we're taking that commitment to the digital realm, making resources, information, and support more accessible than ever before.

So, what can you expect from the new Mulberry Foster Care website?

Youth Corner: We understand the importance of providing a space where young individuals in foster care can feel heard, supported, and empowered. That's why we've dedicated a special section of our website just for them. The Youth Corner offers a safe and welcoming environment where foster youth can find resources, connect with peers, and access support services tailored to their needs.

Blog: Our blog is where you'll find a treasure trove of insights, stories, and valuable information related to foster care. From personal narratives shared by individuals who have experienced the foster care system firsthand to tips for foster parents and professionals, our blog covers a wide range of topics aimed at informing, inspiring, and supporting our community.

Events Calendar: Stay up-to-date with upcoming events, workshops, and support groups through our events calendar. From training sessions for foster parents to fun activities for foster youth, there's always something happening in the Mulberry Foster Care community.

We invite you to explore our new website and discover all the features it has to offer. Whether you're a foster parent, a foster youth, a social worker, or someone interested in supporting our cause, there's something here for everyone.

At Mulberry Foster Care, we're committed to making a positive difference in the lives of foster children and families. Our new website is just one more way we're working towards that goal.

Thank you for being a part of our journey, and we look forward to continuing to serve you through our new online platform.