Do I need a spare bedroom to become a foster parent?

A fostering assessment will normally require a private bedroom that can be allocated to a foster child for their exclusive use. The room needs to be suitable for the child’s age, development and individual circumstances, and it must form part of the home being assessed as a fostering household.

There is not one universal room size or layout that suits every placement. The fostering service will consider whether the room provides enough space for:

• a suitable bed and other essential furniture;
• clothing, personal belongings and storage;
• safe movement around the room;
• privacy and personal space; and
• appropriate heating, lighting, ventilation and general household safety.

The room should be properly furnished and maintained, rather than being used as storage or left in a condition that would not be appropriate for a child. It should also be available as the child’s bedroom throughout the placement. A room that is regularly used as an office, guest room or by another member of the household may need to be changed so that it genuinely provides the child with their own space.

Foster children would not normally share a bedroom with foster carers or other members of the household. In some circumstances, siblings may be able to share, but this depends on their ages, relationships, individual needs and the risks identified during the assessment. Any proposed sharing arrangement must be considered by the fostering service and must protect each child’s safety, privacy and wellbeing.

The location of the bedroom is also relevant. An assessor may consider access to bathroom facilities, the layout of the home, fire safety, escape routes and whether the child can have an appropriate level of supervision. These considerations may be particularly important for younger children or children with additional needs.

If you are considering fostering but your spare room needs work, you do not necessarily need to have everything completed before making an initial enquiry. During the assessment, your fostering team can explain the practical standards that apply and identify any changes needed before a child is placed. You may also be able to discuss what financial or practical support is available for preparing the room, although this depends on the fostering service and the circumstances.

Having a spare bedroom is only one part of the assessment. The fostering service will also look at your household, relationships, health, home safety, circumstances and ability to meet a child’s needs. If your accommodation changes, or the room becomes unavailable, you should tell your fostering service because this may affect which placements can be considered.

If you are unsure whether your current accommodation is suitable, an initial discussion with the fostering team can clarify what would be expected in your particular circumstances.