What does a Foster Family look like?
There are lots of ideas of what a Foster Family should look like, often people may think of a couple at the age where their own children have flown the nest and are ready for a new challenge. This can of course a great time to Foster, but this image can lead to other people incorrectly assuming they cannot Foster. What we need in the UK is a diverse range of Foster Carers to meet the needs and diversity of the children needing the care. Currently the system is still more geared towards younger fostering, however the demographic of need is actually older children and support into adulthood.
What do you need to be a Foster Carer?
It will vary a little by agency, but the main factors are that you:
Are over 18 years old (some agency’s may require 21+).
Have secure housing (rental agreement or ownership) and right to live in the UK.
Have a spare bedroom.
Can I Foster as a single person?
Yes! There are many single approved carers, what is very important is to make sure your support network around you is there to support you when things can get difficult. This would be covered within your assessment. It may be helpful to know that should you choose to enter a relationship during your fostering journey, at some point they will also require an assessment and DBS check should they become a regular visitor to your home or join the family unit.
I haven’t had children of my own, does this write me off as a Foster Carer?
Definitely not, there are many transferable skills that are useful in Fostering and the diverse needs of the children in need of care require a diverse mix of Foster carers with different skillsets and experience. Caring for a child who has experienced trauma requires a different approach already, and so there is learning whether or not you have been a parent yourself.
You may have an idea of what kind of Fostering will work for you and your family, and this will be a large part of your Fostering preparation during your assessment. Often Foster Carers tell us they never envisioned doing the types of Fostering they now love, but were inspired by other carers and discussions with their Social Workers.
