Foster Care Requirements

Fostering is an extraordinary thing to do, and often, it’s just normal people going out of their way to change children’s lives and make a difference in society. It is a common misconception that there are loads of rules and requirements surrounding being a foster parent. In fact, there are only a few essential factors that you need to adhere with to be eligible! 

If you are interested in foster care and want to do your bit, then nothing should stop you from holding back. We encourage everyone with a keen passion for becoming a foster parent to get in touch. Our team of social workers and link workers are always on hand to provide you with advice, guidance, and support in your journey to becoming a carer, even if you’re at the very early stages of considering it! 

So, what are the essential criteria for becoming a foster family?

1. You must be 21 years of age or older. 
2. You must have a spare bedroom in your home. 
3. You must be a British citizen or have indefinite leave to remain.

It’s as simple as that!

Often, people may feel nervous about inquiring because they believe that a factor of their lives or lifestyle will bar them from fostering. This is not the case! Family Fostering Partners actively encourages applications from people from all walks of life and all communities. We are open-minded and inclusive and all that matters is that you have enough time and space in your life to provide full and complete nurture, love, and support to a child in your care. This means that everyone is welcome to apply including members of the LGBTQ+ community, single people, married people, people with disabilities, and so on! 

If you’re eligible to foster, the next step is to look at other aspects of your life and if they will be suitable for fostering. This can mean considering your work, home, family, past, health, and finances. If you choose to go ahead with an application, a link worker will discuss these things with you so it is important that you have considered them before you commit to applying.

Factors to consider include: 

Your personality - are you calm under pressure? Are you fun-loving and young at heart? Are you patient and caring towards others? 

Your finances - are you in a financially stable situation? Can you afford to foster? More information about foster carer pay can be found here. 

Your home - is your home life safe for a child or young person? Do you have pets that could pose an issue? Find out more about fostering with pets here.

Your work - do you work currently and will you have enough time to dedicate yourself to fostering? 

Your health - are you in good health both physically and mentally? Remember, having a disability or illness does not affect you from fostering as long as you are well enough to provide complete care for a child. 

Your past - have you had any previous convictions? Again, convictions do not automatically stop you from fostering but will need to be considered during the application process. 

If you wish to foster, nothing is stopping you! You do not need any formal education or qualifications as complete training and guidance are provided to carers as part of their role. Find out more about the training and support you will receive by clicking the links. 

To speak to a friendly member of the team about if you can foster, please get in touch. We are always happy to discuss any worries or concerns you may have. Please give us a call on 03300 948816 or fill out our online contact form.