Could you foster a child like Riley?
Learn about how therapeutic foster care can change the lives of children and young people.
Riley* is a bright and tech-savvy 14 year old who has been living in a children’s home for the past three years following multiple foster placements. He has experienced significant emotional distress and has previously been detained under the Mental Health Act. These experiences, alongside the frequent moves between foster families, have made it difficult for him to trust adults and feel safe whether it’s at school or his day-to-day life.
Riley is a keen gamer and particularly enjoys survival horror games. Gaming helps him manage anxiety and regulate stress, and he enjoys discussing game strategies and storylines. When he feels emotionally safe and well-supported, he can be funny, creative, and enjoys sharing his interests with others. However when he feels overwhelmed, he presents heightened anxiety, low mood and difficulty managing his anger.
He wants to feel included in family life but requires time, patience, and emotional support to build trust. With the right therapeutic support and consistent care, Riley is now ready to move into a stable family home where his mental health can be understood and supported and secure relationships can develop.
What tailored support could be offered for Riley and his foster carers:
- Specialist training in trauma-informed care (PACE) and supporting young people with complex mental health and wellbeing needs
- Working closely with CAMHS and other mental health professionals to create and follow a therapeutic care plan
- Regular supervision as well as out-of-hours support and advice to help carers understand Riley’s emotional needs and ensure challenging situations are never managed alone.
- Working closely with his school and education professionals to reintroduce and support his learning.
What does the future hold for Riley?
The plan is for Riley to move into a family setting where his mental health needs are understood and prioritised. With foster carers who can offer emotional safety, stability, and skilled therapeutic care, Riley will be supported to build trust, strengthen emotional regulation, and gradually reengage with education. His interests in gaming and technology will be encouraged as positive coping strategies and opportunities for connection.