Who can apply to be a foster carer?
A wide range of people can apply to become a Foster Carer as long as they meet essential requirements:
- You must be over the age of 25.
- You must have the right to live and work in the UK.
- You should live in a residence which supports a child’s needs, i.e. access to their own bedroom.
We welcome and support applications from individuals or couples with diverse backgrounds.
What is foster caring like?
Foster caring is a rewarding experience where you welcome a child or young person into your home, offering them the stability, support, and care they need to thrive.
While it can bring daily challenges, it also creates meaningful moments as you help someone feel safe, build confidence, and heal from past experiences.
Fostering impacts your whole household, so it’s important to have open conversations with your family and support network.
Though it’s not always easy, many carers say it’s one of the most fulfilling things they’ve ever done. With full training, guidance, and ongoing support from our team, you’ll never be alone on the journey.
What responsibilities will I have as a foster carer?
Children who are placed with foster carers can be anxious, scared, unsettled, and often angry. Your role as a foster carer is to liaise with all the necessary people and professionals to make sure that each child receives the care and support they need during this time.
You will be responsible for meeting a foster child’s health care needs, supporting their education, and moving them on to independence. It may also be necessary to advocate for the child and raise concerns on their behalf.
You will need to be committed to providing stability, safety, and nurturing an environment in which a child can be authentically themselves.
Will I receive training?
New applicants will receive ‘Skills to Foster’ preparation training. This is a mixture of on-sight and remote training. The course will take place during the assessment process and prior to the presentation to Panel.
Once approved, you will be invited to ongoing training events held for foster carers throughout the year- some of which are mandatory.
Will I be funded?
You will receive a fostering allowance. Fostering payments vary depending on the age of the child, the number of children placed, and from which local authority the children are referred. Fostering payments are made weekly.
What checks will be carried out?
Before becoming a foster carer, several checks and assessments are required to ensure a safe and supportive environment for children. These include a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, medical assessment, home visits, references from people who know you well, and a full fostering assessment by a qualified social worker. These steps help us understand your background, lifestyle, and ability to care for a child, ensuring the best outcomes for everyone involved.
Will there be a medical check as part of my application?
All prospective foster carers have a short medical with their GP. The information from this is sent to our medical advisor who considers whether there are any health issues to take into account for fostering purposes.
Please don’t be worried about this as there are very few issues which would prevent someone from becoming a foster carer.