Different childhoods.
The same need to belong.
Children who need foster care are individuals, with their own interests, relationships, strengths and hopes. Their care should start with who they are—not a label.
See the child, then the care they need
- Children of different ages need different things.
- Siblings may need a home where they can stay together.
- Your strengths help us explore the care you could offer.
Babies and younger children
Caring for a baby or young child can mean close attention to feeding, sleep, health and early development, alongside family time and professional appointments. Predictable routines and a responsive adult help a child feel secure.
Suitable sleeping arrangements and your availability are assessed individually. Ask us about the practicalities rather than assuming a bedroom exception will apply.
School-aged children
School, friendships and family relationships can all be affected by coming into care. A reliable home gives a child space to learn, enjoy activities and begin trusting the adults around them.
You may work closely with teachers and other professionals, while keeping plenty of room for ordinary childhood.
Teenagers
Teenagers need respect, care and adults who keep listening. Fostering may involve helping with education, friendships, identity, boundaries and the practical skills of growing up.
Preparing for independence does not mean expecting a young person to cope alone. Ask how you would work with their social worker on their pathway plan and, where relevant, a Staying Put arrangement.
Brothers and sisters
Being together can help siblings preserve relationships through a difficult transition. If you have suitable space and capacity, you could offer more than one child a home.
Children with additional needs
Some children need adaptations, specialist support or close work with health and education professionals. The assessment and matching process should help identify the care, skills and support required. Read what it means to foster an autistic child, for example.
Parent-and-child fostering
You offer a home to a parent and their baby together, supporting the parent while contributing to assessment. This requires observation, clear boundaries and specific preparation. Ask the team to explain the responsibilities in detail.
A home that respects who a child is
A child’s ethnicity, faith, language and family connections matter. Some young people have arrived in the UK without a parent or carer. Preparation should help you understand their individual needs and how to support their identity and relationships.
Tell us who you could see yourself caring for. We will talk honestly about your strengths, the support you would need and current local needs.
Curious?
That’s enough to start.
Ask us the question that’s been on your mind.
You don’t have to be ready to apply.