At Lighthouse Fostering, we constantly strive to provide our foster carers with the tools and knowledge they need to better support the children and young people in their care. On Thursday, 3rd April 2025, we had the privilege of hosting an essential training session on Mental Health and Self-Harming Behaviour, led by renowned Psychodynamic Psychotherapist Bridget Hamlet. The session, which was accessible both online and in person, provided attendees with an invaluable opportunity to deepen their understanding of these critical issues. Through a combination of expert-led discussion and practical insights, foster carers were empowered with the skills and confidence to better support children facing mental health challenges.
Highlights from the Training
The training focused on three core areas, all designed to equip carers with the knowledge and tools to provide compassionate and effective support:
- Recognising the Signs Foster carers learned how to identify the signs of mental health struggles and self-harming behaviour. Bridget expertly explained what to look for and emphasised the importance of early intervention to provide timely support.
- Having Supportive Conversations The session covered techniques for creating a safe and open space to discuss sensitive issues. Carers were encouraged to use nurturing language and active listening skills to foster trust and understanding with the children they support.
- Exploring Effective Strategies Practical strategies were explored, giving carers tools to guide children and young people towards healthier coping mechanisms. Bridget shared evidence-based techniques that empower carers to build emotional resilience and promote positive mental well-being.
The Impact of the Training
The feedback from the session highlighted just how beneficial it was for those who attended. Many carers shared that the training gave them a greater understanding of how to approach delicate conversations and manage situations with confidence and empathy. This type of specialist training is vital in helping carers feel well-prepared to handle the complexities of fostering. By building their skills, carers not only enhance their relationships with the children they look after but also contribute to creating an environment where young people feel valued, safe, and supported.
About Bridget Hamlet
Bridget Hamlet’s expertise as a Psychodynamic Psychotherapist brought depth and insight to the session. Her vast experience in working with individuals facing emotional challenges, combined with her approachable teaching style, made the training both informative and inspiring. Foster carers found her guidance practical and immediately applicable to their roles.
Looking Back and Moving Forward
The Mental Health and Self-Harming Behaviour Training session was a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to support foster carers at Lighthouse Fostering. By equipping carers with the skills they need to understand and address mental health concerns, we are helping them to positively impact the lives of the young people they care for. If you missed this session or are interested in learning more about fostering and the extensive training we provide, please feel free to contact us. Together, we can continue to empower carers and create brighter futures for children in care.
#MentalHealthMatters #FosteringSupport #FosteringTraining