Did you know 83,840 children are currently in care and 9,000 additional foster carers are needed in the UK. These are shocking statistics, and highlight the urgent need for innovation and support within the foster care system.
In this episode host Annie Legge speaks with Rasheda Fry, founder of Fosterli, a platform aimed at improving the fostering process through technology. They discuss the alarming statistics surrounding foster care in the UK, the challenges faced by foster carers, and how Fosterli seeks to streamline the assessment process to make it more efficient and human-centered.
Rasheda shares her personal journey as a social worker and a parent, the startup challenges she faced, and the importance of community support and innovation in the fostering sector.
The conversation also touches on the role of AI in social care and the vision for a more effective fostering system.
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Takeaways
Fosterli addresses the urgent need for more foster carers.
The fostering process can be made more efficient with technology.
Local authorities face challenges in recruitment compared to private agencies.
Fosterli is designed to streamline the fostering assessment journey.
Mentorship and support are crucial for startup growth.
Balancing technology with human connection is essential in social care.
AI has potential to enhance the fostering process.
Success in fostering means improved retention and satisfaction of carers.
The vision is to create a trustworthy and efficient fostering system.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Tech for Good Southwest
01:49 The Fostering Crisis: Statistics and Insights
05:33 Fosterli: Revolutionizing the Fostering Process
09:16 Navigating the Fostering Market: Public vs. Private Sector
13:30 The Startup Journey: Building Fosterli
19:06 Support and Mentorship: Key to Growth
24:51 Balancing Technology and Human Connection
28:44 The Role of AI in Fosterli's Future
33:02 Vision for Success: Changing the Fostering Landscape
35:29 Call to Action: Seeking Support and Collaboration