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Could you foster?

Fostering is more open, more flexible and more supported than most people expect. Find out what fostering could look like in your life.

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Eligiblity: Who can foster?

Every child deserves a safe, loving home. Foster carers make that possible. You might be closer to becoming a foster carer than you think.

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Types of fostering

Fostering looks different for everyone. Whatever your situation, there is a type of fostering that could suit you and your family. Your local fostering service can help you find the right fit for you.

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Your journey to becoming a foster carer

Every step of your fostering journey is supported. Here is what to expect. The process takes up to eight months. Some steps may happen in a different order or at the same time. Your local fostering service will guide you through.

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Support, training, allowance and fees

You won’t be doing this alone. From the moment you’re approved, you’ll have a dedicated social worker and access to a support network throughout your fostering journey.

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Learn from real foster care stories

Lizzie’s story

Lizzie shares her experience of becoming a foster carer, adapting her working life, and supporting a young girl as her confidence grew over time.

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Saghir’s story

Saghir shares her experience of becoming a foster carer, what fostering has involved over the past 10 years and what she has learned along the way.

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Laura’s story

Laura shares her experience of becoming a foster carer, what fostering has involved, and the advice she would give to anyone considering it.

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Find your local service

If you’re interested in becoming a foster carer, speak to the fostering team at your local council to find out if fostering is right for you.