Emergency and Interim fostering

Step in during critical moments to support children and fellow carers.

Emergency and Interim foster carers are vital to Scotland’s care system. These placements provide urgent, short‑term stability for children in crisis and ongoing care for those waiting on long‑term decisions about their future. By stepping in at critical moments, you offer a lifeline of protection, comfort and hope.

With more than 150 years of supporting vulnerable children, Aberlour understands the power of a caring home in transforming lives. When you foster with us, you become part of a trusted network committed to protecting children and helping them move forward with confidence.

What is emergency fostering?

Emergency fostering provides rapid intervention when a child’s safety or wellbeing is at risk. This could be due to a sudden family breakdown, an urgent safeguarding concern or another critical event. Children are placed quickly in a safe, secure home while longer‑term arrangements are identified. In these moments, every hour matters, and your quick response ensures protection and reassurance when it is needed most.

What is interim fostering?

Interim fostering is a planned placement lasting less than 24 months without a permanence order. It offers children stability and care while decisions about their long‑term future are made. This could mean supporting a child until they return home, move to another foster family, or progress to adoption. Interim foster carers provide a consistent, nurturing environment that helps children feel secure during periods of uncertainty.

How emergency and interim fostering fit with other models

Emergency fostering: Unplanned, urgent care that prioritises safety and wellbeing in crisis situations. Usually short in duration and reviewed quickly to find the most appropriate next step.

Interim fostering: Planned, medium‑term care that bridges the gap between emergency placement and a child’s permanent home. Offers stability and emotional support during decision‑making processes.

Short‑break fostering: Planned, short‑term stays that give children a secure change of environment while offering respite or therapeutic support for their main carers.

Long‑term fostering: A placement lasting more than 24 months without a permanence order, providing lasting stability and the chance to build enduring relationships.

Take the next step

If you are ready to bring your compassion and responsiveness to the forefront of Scotland's foster care system, consider joining Aberlour Fostering. Your willingness to provide immediate or scheduled support can be the catalyst that transforms a child's crisis into an opportunity for safety and care. Enquire today about becoming a foster carer with Aberlour and help us maintain a robust, responsive network for children.