An Australian-developed program for foster carers is receiving unreserved support in Donegal, Ireland.

Known as the Triple-A Model of Therapeutic Care, the program is currently being delivered by Secure Attachment Matters Ireland with support from TUSLA, the Irish Government Child and Family Agency.

In week 4 of a five-week implementation program, 100% of foster carers have indicated that they would recommend the program to others week by week; with many suggesting it should be compulsory training for all new foster carers entering the role.

Others have suggested that this is training all (foster) parents should receive.

The Triple-A Model of Therapeutic Care is authored by South Australian Clinical Psychologist, Colby Pearce. The three “A’s” in “Triple-A” stand for Attachment, Arousal, and Accessibility (to needs provision).  The program is based in the sciences of human relationships, brain development and learning.

There is a focus on achieving strong, enduring and therapeutic connections between deeply hurt and troubled children and those who care for them. The methods are practical, user-friendly and achievable.

There is also a focus on the wellbeing of those who care for these children. Being a foster parent can be a difficult and thankless role and foster carers can experience their own trauma upon being exposed to what has occurred to the children in their care.  Foster parents are vital to all our efforts to help children recover from abuse and neglect and lead happy, healthy productive lives. Any therapeutic caregiving program needs to focus on foster carer wellbeing as well.

For more information about Triple-A contact the author, Colby Pearce, at colby@securestart.com.au