We know that potential foster carers might worry about whether they are the sort of people we are looking for, or ask themselves “can I foster?” But there really is no such thing as the ‘ideal’ or ‘perfect’ foster carer. All that matters is that you can provide a safe and loving home for a child in need.
Age
You must be over 18 years old to foster, although some fostering agencies may require you to be at least 21 years old.
Relationship Status
As long as you can support a child in your care, your relationship status, whether married, in a civil partnership, divorced, or single, does not matter. If you are in a relationship, it should be stable to provide a supportive environment for the child.
Sexuality and Gender
Fostering is open to individuals of all sexual orientations and genders. The most important factor is your ability to meet the needs of the child and provide a caring environment.
Ethnicity
Fostering is open to individuals from any cultural background. You must have a good understanding of English to communicate effectively and collaborate with professionals.
Having Children
You can be a foster carer regardless of whether you have children of your own. If you have children living with you, they will be included in the assessment process and supported throughout your fostering journey. If you have children living elsewhere, they will also be involved in the assessment process. This will be approached sensitively and in an age-appropriate way.
Your Home
You can foster whether you own or rent your home. Some of our local authority partners may require you to have a spare room for the foster child, but this will be discussed during the application process.
Work Status
You may be able to foster while working another job, but you must be available to care for the child, as well as attending meetings, and training sessions. The assessment process will explore your ability to meet the child’s needs alongside your work commitments. More employers are developing Friendly Fostering Family Policy to support you to be able to work and foster.
Health Issues
Physical or mental health issues do not necessarily prevent you from becoming a foster carer. What matters is that you are physically fit and emotionally stable enough to provide consistent care and support for a child or young person. All prospective foster carers must undergo a medical assessment with their GP.
Criminal Record
You must be honest about any previous offences during the assessment process. Minor offences should not necessarily prevent you from fostering, but you will be required to undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check which will highlight any criminal convictions. Honesty from the outset is crucial in this process.
Interested in becoming a foster carer?
Get in touch with our experienced, friendly team today to have a conversation about your potential future as a foster carer…