Can I become a Foster Carer?

If you’ve ever thought about fostering but wondered whether you would be suitable, you’re not alone. Many people assume there are strict rules about who can foster — but the reality is that foster carers come from all walks of life.

What matters most is your ability to offer a safe, stable and caring home to a child or young person who needs it.

Below, we answer the most common questions about who can foster and what’s involved.

Who can become a foster carer?

You can apply to foster in the UK if you:

  • Are over 21 years old

  • Have a spare bedroom

  • Have the right to work in the UK

  • Are willing to complete training and an assessment

  • Can offer a stable, nurturing and safe environment

You do not need to:

  • Be married

  • Own your home

  • Have parenting experience

  • Be in full-time employment

Foster carers include single people, couples, families, renters, homeowners, people in work and those who aren’t. What matters most is your commitment to supporting children and working as part of a professional care team.

What qualities do foster carers need?

Fostering isn’t about being perfect — it’s about being patient, resilient and caring. We look for people who can:

  • Provide warmth, consistency and understanding

  • Set healthy boundaries and routines

  • Communicate openly with professionals and birth families

  • Cope with challenges and ask for support when needed

  • Put a child’s needs first

Every child in care has their own experiences and emotions. Your role is to help them feel safe, valued and supported.

Your background and circumstances

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. You can foster if you are:

  • Single, married, co-habiting or in a same-sex relationship

  • From any ethnicity, culture or religion

  • A parent or someone with no children

  • In employment, self-employed or not currently working

Health

You should be in good general health and able to care for a child day-to-day. Having a medical condition doesn’t automatically prevent you from fostering — it’s assessed on an individual basis.

Criminal records

All applicants must complete enhanced DBS checks. Some convictions may prevent fostering, particularly those relating to children or serious violence, but many minor or historic offences do not automatically rule you out.

Pets

Pets are usually welcome. We’ll simply look at how they interact with children and how you manage safety.

FAQ’s
FAQ’s