Taking A Stand: Foster Care and Family Visits

Call to Action: Advocating for Change in the Foster Care Family Visits

As a parent experiencing the emotional toll of being separated from your child, you have the right to advocate for better support during your foster care visits. Creating a more neutral and healing environment during these visits is crucial for fostering the bond between you and your child. Below is a sample letter that you can send to your local child welfare agency or foster care system to request changes, such as the inclusion of neutral observers during visits and access to therapeutic support for both you and your child. You can send this letter electronically or physically, depending on your preference.

Sample letter

[Your Full Name]

[Your Address]

[City, State, ZIP Code]

[Email Address]

[Phone Number]

[Date]

To Whom It May Concern,

[Name of Foster Care Agency or Child Welfare Department]

[Address of Agency]

[City, State, ZIP Code]

Subject: Request for Changes to Foster Care Visits to Support Parent-Child Bonding

Dear [Agency Director/Supervisor/Case Worker’s Name],

I hope this letter finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I am the parent of [Child’s Name], who is currently in the foster care system under your supervision. I am writing to express my concerns regarding the foster care visitation process and to respectfully request changes that would support both my child and me as we navigate this challenging time.

As you know, being separated from my child has been an incredibly painful experience, and the limited time we have together during foster care visits is critical for rebuilding our bond. However, I believe that there are improvements that can be made to ensure that these visits are as meaningful and supportive as possible. Specifically, I would like to request the following:

1. Neutral Observers for Visitation:

I understand that it is standard practice for a social worker or staff member to observe visits between parents and children. However, I respectfully request that a neutral observer, who is not directly involved in the case or the removal of my child, be present during these visits. Having a neutral party would allow for a more comfortable and fair environment, free from any perceived biases or history that may affect the quality of the visit. This would enable me and my child to focus on reconnecting and healing without feeling as though we are being evaluated.

2. Access to Therapeutic Support for Parents and Children During Visits:

I would also like to request that a therapist or mental health professional be made available during or after visits to help both my child and me process the emotions associated with our separation. Foster care visits can be emotionally overwhelming, and having therapeutic support would provide guidance in navigating these difficult feelings. This would greatly benefit both my child’s well-being and my ability to support their emotional needs during this time.

These changes would create a more supportive environment for both the parent and child, promoting a stronger bond and emotional healing before any potential reunification. I trust that your agency is dedicated to the best interests of children and their families, and I hope that you will consider implementing these improvements to foster care visits.

Please let me know if a meeting can be arranged to discuss this request in further detail. I am available at [your phone number] or via email at [your email address]. Thank you for your time and consideration in making these critical changes that can improve the well-being of my child and our family.

Sincerely,

[Your Full Name]

[Your Child’s Full Name]

[Case Number (if applicable)]

This letter can serve as a formal request to bring about change in the visitation process for you and your child. By advocating for neutral observers and therapeutic support, you take an active role in ensuring that your child has the best chance for emotional healing and a healthy reunion. You deserve a fair and supportive environment to bond with your child during this difficult time, and by making your voice heard, you can push for the changes that will benefit both you and your child’s emotional well-being.