Who can be a foster carer?
There are very few things that automatically prevent someone from becoming a foster carer. People from many different backgrounds foster successfully, and every household is different.
What matters most is being able to offer a safe, stable home for a child and having the time, patience and commitment to support them.
Because everyone’s circumstances are unique, it’s often easier to talk through your situation with us. If you have a specific question about whether you could foster, simply use the WhatsApp advice button below and we’ll be happy to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can become a foster carer?
Most people over the age of 21 can apply to become a foster carer. Foster carers come from a wide range of backgrounds including single people, couples, homeowners and renters. The most important requirements are having a spare bedroom and being able to provide a safe, supportive home for a child.
Do I need to own my home to foster?
No, you don’t need to own your home. Many foster carers rent their property. As long as you have a suitable spare bedroom and permission from your landlord if required, renting usually isn’t a barrier to fostering.
Can single people become foster carers?
Yes. Many foster carers are single. What matters most is that you can offer a stable home and have a good support network around you, such as family or friends who can provide support if needed.
Is there an age limit for foster carers?
You must normally be at least 21 years old to foster. There isn’t a strict upper age limit, and many people start fostering later in life. Experience, stability and patience can all be valuable qualities in a foster carer.
Do I need experience working with children?
You don’t need formal childcare qualifications to become a foster carer. Many carers bring valuable life experience from parenting, family life or other roles. You will also receive training and ongoing support from your fostering agency.
Allegations
It’s estimated that 30% of foster carers will face an alligation at some point during their foster carer, so it’s worth understanding what they are and the impact they might have.
Fostering & Finances
Though it may be difficult, talking openly about finances is crucial. At our organisation, we prioritise transparency, including when it comes to the fees and allowances that we provide to our carers.
Who Can Foster
Fostering is possible for the majority, yet a few requirements may be restrictive. As such, understanding these prerequisites is advantageous.
How long does a placement last?
Placements can last from over night to many years, so we’ve tried to set out what factors influence the length of a placement.
How many children can I foster?
This is an important question to ask, as it will be one of the things which are discussed during your assessment
What children need fostering?
There are a lot of myths about the kinds of children which need fostering, rather then imagining the worst,
Can I choose the gender and age of the child?
This is a really common question to have, and more or less the answer is yes, however, with some caveats.
What's the assesment like?
A fostering assessment is a big bit of work, so it’s worth understanding it before starting.
Will I be supported as a foster carer?
It’s really important to understand the level of support you will receive, this isn’t the same across all agencies.
Time to book a call with us
Our Recruitment Team Would Love to Have a chat
To begin the journey of becoming a foster carer, the initial step involves an informal 15-minute call with us. During this call, we provide an opportunity to answer any specific questions you may have about your situation, whilst helping you determine how fostering fits in with your life.