Your questions, answered

Single people, couples, renters and homeowners can all foster. You must be at least 21, have a spare bedroom, have the right to live in the UK, and have time and patience to give. Your age, gender, race, religion, sexuality and marital status do not rule you out.

No. Many foster carers rent. What matters is that your home is safe and stable and that the child has their own bedroom.

Experience helps, but it is not essential. Training and support are built into the process, and many carers find that life experience matters just as much.

Often yes, depending on the type of fostering and the child's needs. Some carers foster full time, while others foster part time, offer short breaks, or work flexibly. Talk to us about your situation.

Yes. Your own children are part of your fostering family and we will include them in the assessment and preparation. We have guidance for helping them adjust.

It depends on the details. Some convictions rule you out, and many things do not. Having a health condition does not stop you fostering as long as you can meet a child's needs. Be honest with us early and we will explain how it works.

Usually around three to five months from your application, depending on how quickly checks and references come back.

Foster carers receive a weekly allowance to cover the costs of looking after a child, plus a reward element for their skills and experience. See our Finance and support page for how it works, and speak to our team for current rates.

A dedicated supervising social worker, regular home visits, ongoing training, peer support groups, and an out-of-hours advice line available around the clock.

That is fine. There is no obligation at any stage, and we would rather you were sure than rushed.