Information. Support. Brighter futures.
Everything you need to understand fostering — who can foster, the types of fostering, the fostering allowance and how to take your next step with confidence.
Clear answers for every step of your journey
Become A Foster Family is an independent fostering information service. We explain what fostering involves, who can apply, the different types of foster care and the financial support available — in plain English, with no pressure. Whether you are just curious or ready to enquire, you will find clear answers and a friendly next step here.
Learn how fostering worksFostering, made clearer
Understand how foster care works and the difference a safe, stable home makes to a child.
ExploreSingle, married, renting or working — people from all walks of life foster. See if you qualify.
ExploreShort-term, long-term, emergency, respite and parent and child fostering explained simply.
ExploreHow much foster carers are paid, what the allowance covers and the practical help you receive.
ExploreA rewarding role
Thousands of children need a foster family every year. Fostering gives a child stability — and changes your life too.
A safe, stable foster home gives a child the chance to thrive — at school, with friends and in themselves.
Fostering is a two-way journey. Foster carers often say they gain just as much as they give.
Training, a supervising social worker and a community of fellow foster carers are with you from day one.
One step at a time
Four simple steps from first question to welcoming a child — with guidance and support at every stage.
Step 1
Explore fostering and find answers to your questions.
Step 2
Talk things through with a friendly fostering team.
Step 3
Complete your assessment with support at every stage.
Step 4
Welcome a child and make a lasting difference.
With you all the way
No one expects you to have all the answers on day one. Every foster carer receives full preparation training, a dedicated social worker and round-the-clock advice — from your first course through your first placement and beyond.
Talk to our teamFriendly, practical courses prepare you fully before your first placement.
Your own supervising social worker checks in regularly and is always on hand.
Round-the-clock support line, so help is there whenever you need it.
Local groups, events and mentoring from carers who have been where you are.
Your next step
Take the first step towards making a difference — get free, friendly fostering advice today.