Ending a placement

Why placements end or change

Children and young people may move for different reasons, including:

• returning to their parents or extended family (restoration)
• moving to another foster or kinship home that better meets their needs
• changes in care arrangements as their needs evolve
• preparing for independence, for older young people.

A placement ending is not a reflection of your care. It usually reflects changes in the child’s needs, circumstances or long-term planning.

What this means for you as a carer

Being a carer means being part of a child’s journey, including times of change.

When a placement ends, you may:

• support the child to understand the change
• share important information with the next carer or family
• help the child prepare emotionally for the transition
• work with the caseworker to support a safe and planned move

Your knowledge of the child is valuable and helps ensure continuity of care.

How you will be involved

Where appropriate, your involvement may include:

• talking with the child about the change in a way they can understand
• sharing routines, preferences, cultural connections and health information
• supporting the child to express feelings about the move
• participating in planning discussions or meetings
• working with the caseworker and, where appropriate, the new carers

Preparing for a transition

Planning ahead can help reduce stress for everyone involved.

Your caseworker will support you with:

• explaining the timeline and next steps
• arranging introductions where appropriate
• coordinating information sharing between carers
• supporting the child’s emotional needs during the transition.

Practical ways to help

You may find it helpful to:

• prepare the child early and gently, using clear and simple language
• create space for questions and feelings
• keep routines as steady as possible during the transition period
• share key information with the next carers or family
• support the child to take important items with them (photos, toys, keepsakes).

Supporting the child through change

Children and young people may experience a range of emotions, including sadness, confusion, worry, relief, or mixed feelings.

You can support them by:

• explaining the change in calm, age-appropriate language
• reassuring them that their feelings are normal
• encouraging them to ask questions
• focusing on what will stay the same, where possible (people, routines, connections)
• helping them create small ways to say goodbye, such as drawings, letters or keepsakes
• avoiding blame or judgement about the change

Helpful tip

Short, repeated conversations are often more helpful than one long discussion.

Emotional impact on carers

It is normal to experience a range of feelings when a child leaves your care.

You may feel:

• sadness or grief
• worry about the child’s future
• relief, especially after a challenging period
• a sense of loss or emptiness

What can help

• give yourself time to adjust and reflect
• talk with someone you trust or a peer support group
• acknowledge the difference you made in the child’s life
• seek support early if you are struggling

Your feelings are valid and part of the caring journey.

Don’t forget your own children

If you have children in your home, they may also have developed a close bond with the child in your care. A placement ending can be confusing or emotional for them too.

They may need support to understand what is happening and space to talk about how they are feeling.

You can help by:

• explaining the change in simple, age-appropriate language
• acknowledging their feelings and questions
• reassuring them that it’s okay to feel sad or miss the child
• giving them time to say goodbye in their own way, if appropriate
• letting them share memories or talk about what the child meant to them

If needed, your caseworker can also help you think through ways to support your children during this transition.

Support for carers and children

Support is available throughout the transition.

You can access support from:

• your caseworker, for guidance and planning.
• carer support lines for advice and reassurance - Carers for Kids NSW or for Aboriginal carers or carers of Aboriginal children contact AbSec.
• Peer Support Groups, connect with other carers who understand placement changes.  Visit: Carers for Kids NSW - peer support group page or AbSec Carer Support line.
• counselling services, for carers and children, your caseworker can organise for you.
• cultural support services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families -  AbSec Carer Support line.
• training and workshops on transitions and emotional wellbeing, your caseworker can organise for you.

Helpful tip

Reaching out early can make transitions feel more manageable for both you and the child.

Tips for carers

• Stay in close contact with your caseworker during the transition
• Be honest but gentle with the child about what is happening
• Focus on the child’s feelings and needs
• Share information that will help the next carer
• Take time to acknowledge your own emotions
• Ask for support if you need it

Frequently asked questions

Why is the child leaving my care?

Children may move due to changes in their needs, family circumstances or care arrangements. Your caseworker can explain the specific reason for the decision.

Can I help prepare the child for the move?

Yes. You play an important role in helping the child understand and feel supported through the transition.

Can I stay in contact with the child?

Sometimes ongoing contact is possible, depending on the child’s plan and what is safe and appropriate. Your caseworker will discuss this with you.

What information should I share with the new carers?

Information about routines, health needs, preferences, education, cultural connections and what helps the child feel safe and settled is especially helpful.

How will the transition be managed?

Your caseworker will work with you, the child, family and new carers to plan the transition and support everyone involved.

Where can I get support if I’m struggling?

You can speak with your caseworker, contact Carers for Kids NSW or AbSec, or access counselling and peer support services.