Foster care has changed dramatically over the last 30 years. Today fostering is a career, uniquely combining family life with a skilled profession.
There is a shortage of least 10,000 foster carers across the UK and more foster carers are needed to provide children with safe and caring homes while they are unable to live with their own families. A diverse range of people with the right skills and qualities are required to meet the needs of the children in care.
About fostering
Fostering involves looking after someone else's child or teenager in your own home on a short term basis. A child may need a safe place to stay for a few weeks or months and, in some cases, until they have grown up.
Who can foster?
People from all backgrounds: single, married, divorced, in a civil partnership or living with a partner. All cultural, ethnic, religious or social background are welcome. No formal qualifications are necessary - training and support is provided. The only stipulation is enough space to accommodate a child, with their own room.
