Could I be a foster carer?
There is no single type of person who makes a 'perfect' foster carer. We welcome applicants from all different walks of life.
Who can foster?
You can become a foster carer whether you're:
- male or female
- old or young
- married or single
- gay or straight
- from any ethnic background
- renting or a homeowner
To foster you need:
- to be over 21
- time and flexible work arrangements
- some past experience with children or young people, but you don't need to be an expert
- experience of being a parent, or from spending time caring for children in your family or volunteering
- skills and qualities that will enable you to meet the needs of the children and young people you care for
- a spare room for children aged 2 and above
We'll also consider:
- how easily you can travel
- your health
- your financial security
- your criminal record, if you have Schedule 1 Offences or a large number of repeat convictions
- your pets, if you have one that might be dangerous or aggressive
You'll also need:
- to really like and enjoy the company of children and young people
- to be interested and always willing to learn more
- the energy and resilience to stick with it, even if things are difficult
- a lot of understanding and the ability to look beyond a child's behaviour to the reasons for it
- the ability to be consistent and confident in your decisions
- to be able to develop trust with a child by listening and talking
- to work as part of a team with families, social workers, teachers and health workers
- a flexible approach, with a good sense of humour and enthusiasm
- to make a child or young person feel part of your family
