Join Dr. Jodie Park and Rose Mackey, private practice social workers in NSW, Australia, as they delve into the critical topic of foster care assessment on this episode of "Relational Practice: A Social Work Podcast".

This discussion explores the nuances of assessing foster carers' capacity, differentiating it from parenting capacity assessments. Jodie and Rose will share their insights and practical experiences, examining key areas that should be considered in foster care assessments, including motivation to foster, personal background, household dynamics, parenting capacity, and compliance checks.

The episode also highlights the current global and Australian shortage of foster carers, discussing its causes and consequences, such as the increased use of emergency accommodation and residential care for vulnerable children. They'll touch upon the unique motivations of foster carers, and the essential qualities beyond specific skills that contribute to successful caring.

Tune in as they consider the impact of carer shortages on children, the potential for approving inappropriate carers, and the critical need for targeted support to prevent burnout and promote carer retention.

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Music by Hannah Park

Editing by Angus Pinkstone