Exploring the retention factors that contribute to the satisfaction and well-being of foster parents in an Indigenous child and family well-being agency in Northeastern Ontario during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

This study aims to better understand foster parent satisfaction and well-being by exploring factors contributing to foster parent retention in an Indigenous Children’s Aid Society in Northeastern Ontario. The research methodology used for the study includes a web-based survey, individual interviews, and traditional talking circles. Utilizing Hanlon et al.’s (2021) five major findings that contribute to foster parent retention, the study examines these findings through the Indigenous medicine wheel quadrants defined as Personal Attributes [and skills] in the East (the starting place), Relationship to Child Welfare System in the South (where relationships reside), Material Resources [financial support and access to services aka ‘practical needs’] in the West (representing knowledge and respect), and Training and Peer Support in the North (a place of spirituality and healing), with the centre of the wheel being Indigenous foster parent satisfaction and well-being. Notably, the study occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic, which increased parental stress and added a layer of complexity to an already complex role of fostering. Foster parents identified physical and cultural isolation as predominant themes during the COVID-19 pandemic.