Fostering Criteria Explained

If you’re thinking about fostering, you may be wondering if you’re eligible and what you need to do to become a foster parent. The good news is that nearly anyone can foster!

Many different people from different walks of life and with different backgrounds and experiences choose to foster. It’s one of the most rewarding careers out there and it plays an important role within the community and society at large. 

What are the essential fostering criteria?

That being said, there are a few requirements that you must adhere to if you want to become a carer: 

• You must be aged 21 or over
• You must have a spare bedroom
• You must have enough time in your life to commit yourself to foster care
• You must have leave to remain in the UK

Why do you need a spare bedroom to foster? 

A spare bedroom for your foster child is extremely important, without one, you will not be allowed to begin your fostering application. This is because it’s necessary for children to have their own space where they can feel safe and secure. 

Looked after children come into care for many different reasons, but is it common that they have had traumatic experiences that make them vulnerable. A secure and cosy bedroom provides them with a safe haven to call their own and to begin in their recovery. 

Foster children need their own bedroom and cannot share with your birth children or other foster children that you may have. As part of your assessment, there will be home visits and social workers will assess your home space to ensure it is suitable for children. Basic requirements for a spare bedroom include a bed, wardrobe, window, and other household items such as pillows, blankets, duvets, rugs, and other items to make the room comfortable. 

Things that won’t stop you from fostering

Many people are worried about making the first move and contacting foster care services and agencies because they think that they will not be accepted or that they are barred from fostering. This is most likely not the case! 

You can foster if…

• You’re single, married, in a civil partnership, or a relationship
• A member of the LGBTQ+ community
• You already have children or you’ve never had children
• You have pets (they are assessed as part of your application) 
• You are over 21, there is no upper age limit! 
• You are disabled, have a mental illness, or any other health condition as long as you have the ability to care for a child 

In short, there’s no need to feel worried that you won’t be accepted based on your background, culture, religion, identity, or any other factor that makes up who you are! We are always looking for new carers, and you might just be the newest member of our team. 

So, if you’re interested in fostering, take the first step and contact us to begin your journey. Full training is provided to all of our carers and no previous experience of childcare or qualifications are needed for the role. Simply call 03300 948816 or click here to fill out our contact form to kick start your amazing journey.