Could you foster someone else's child?

Many different kinds of people become foster carers. Just like the children who need to be looked after, they come from all walks of life. But they all have one thing in common - they are able to give children a secure and loving home.

Becoming a foster carer

Applications to be a foster carer are considered on an individual basis:

• You maybe married, in a stable relationship or may be single person, male or female.
• You maybe any age but as fostering can be physically and emotionally demanding, you will need to be reasonably fit, but a disability in itself need not be a barrier.
• You do not need to live in large houses or own your home, but you do need to have sufficient space to provide a bedroom for the child you foster.
• You do not need any previous experience but you do need patience and understanding and the willingness to make a commitment to a child.
• It's important to be aware that fostering involves your whole family and that all family members therefore need to be party to any discussions and decisions - especially where physical space in your home is limited.

Whatever your circumstances, there is no reason to assume that you won't be considered. Only people with certain serious criminal records are automatically excluded. In particular, offences under Section 1 of the Sexual Offences Act 1956 and Schedule 1 of the Children and Young People Act 1933 in England and Wales, and under Schedule 1 to the Criminal Procedure (Scotland) Act 1995 in Scotland.

If you are interested in becoming a foster carer please call our free phone enquiry line on 0800 7838 798 or follow the link on this page to the foster care enquiry form.