This episode explores the challenges and complexities of foster care, particularly the grief experienced when a foster child leaves a caregiver's home. 

With valuable insights from Dr. Margaret Kertesz, a Senior Research Fellow at the University of Melbourne, and foster carers Charles and Pam, this episode examines the profound sense of loss and grief carers can feel when a child leaves their home. Dr. Kertesz shares findings from her latest research on the impact of multiple transitions on foster families, emphasizing the need for ongoing support and recognition of carers' grief. 

The podcast highlights coping strategies, including the importance of maintaining connections with former foster children, understanding the unique pressures each relationship brings, and having authentic, supportive relationships between carers and professionals.

This podcast is hosted by Summah Hemming, Principal Practitioner at MacKillop Family Services.

(01:45 ) Challenges and Emotional Impact of Foster Caring

(03:55 ) Research Insights on Foster Care Transitions

(17:16 ) Understanding Grief and Loss in Foster Caring

(19:06 ) Supporting Foster Carers Through Transitions

(20:27 ) Coping Mechanisms and Self-Care Strategies

(21:51 ) Maintaining Connections Post-Transition

Find out more about becoming a foster carer at MacKillop Family Services, visit www.mackillop.org.au/fostercare or call 1300 791 677

Access the MacKillop Family Services and Melbourne University Grief and Loss Research Report –  http://www.mackillop.org.au/loss-and-grief-in-foster-care

If themes in this content have impacted you, consider contacting Australia's National Grief & Loss Support Hub, Griefline, at griefline.org.au or call 1300 845 745.

If you’re a foster carer and require support with grief and loss, please contact your agency for pathways to support. Report – http://www.mackillop.org.au/loss-and-grief-in-foster-care

If themes in this content have impacted you, consider contacting Australia's National Grief & Loss Support Hub, Griefline, at griefline.org.au or call 1300 845 745.

If you’re a foster carer and require support with grief and loss, please contact your agency for pathways to support.

Produced by ⁠⁠Posterboy Media⁠⁠

Narration written by ⁠⁠Katy Warner