The Mockingbird Family Model

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What is Mockingbird?

The Mockingbird Family Model is an extended family model of foster care developed by The Fostering Network. Fostering North Somerset is The Fostering Network’s first mockingbird partner in the South West. Since our first constellation launched in December 2019, the programme has gone from strength to strength with 3 constellations now in operation bringing strength, stability and positivity to our foster families.

The Mockingbird Model is an innovative method of foster care using the Mockingbird Family Model. This is an extended family model that provides respite care, peer support, regular joint planning and training, and social activities.

The Mockingbird programme is based on the Mockingbird Family Model, which was originally developed by The Mockingbird Society in America in 2004.

Adapted by The Fostering Network, the Mockingbird model is where one foster home acts as a hub for other carers offering planned and emergency sleepovers as well as advice, training and support. The hub home foster carers provide support to around six to 10 other foster families in their constellation. The aim of the programme is to improve placement stability for the child and the fostering family and help them build stronger relationships.

At North Somerset, we hope to build more constellations in the future so that existing and new foster families can benefit from the Mockingbird programme. If you are an experienced carer interested in a Hub carer role or thinking of becoming a foster carer then please get in touch via our “Contact us” page.

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