Who can foster
Fostering is open to everyone who can offer a child the care they need, help them to thrive and meet their needs. You can foster if you're:
single
married
in a civil partnership
living with a partner
heterosexual
lesbian
gay
bisexual
transgender
parents
homeowner
renting
We're looking for people who:
are aged 21 and over, there is no upper age limit
have a stable home life
are flexible with their time
are good listeners
are able to provide guidance and reassurance
are able to work as part of a team
are in good health and able to foster for the foreseeable future
are financially secure
have a suitable home
have friends and family who can support them
Skills you need to become a foster carer
You'll receive training before being approved to foster. This training gives you the tools, skills and experience to help meet the needs of any child in your care. As well as providing day-to-day care, you'll need to:
- support the child's educational, health and social wellbeing keep records
- attend meetings and work with the wider team
- commit time and energy to be there for children in your care
- manage challenging behaviour
- promote contact with birth family members
- advocate on behalf of the child
- have patience, resilience and confidence to deal with situations that don't go plan
- be someone they can trust and talk to
- encourage them to take pride in their achievements
- be observant and recognise when you need to step in or get help to deal with a situation
- reflect on your actions, learn from your experiences and develop your skills
Every foster carer develops different skills. You may develop the skills to look after disabled children, specialise in caring for young parents and their babies or you may focus on caring for groups of brothers and sisters, teenagers or babies.