Frequently asked questions

What is fostering?

Is fostering the same as adoption?

Why are children fostered?

What do foster carers do?

What is a fostering service?

Are there different types of fostering?

Who can become a foster carer?

Is it a full-time job?

Do I get paid?

Will I receive training?

What support is available?

What about my own children?

If you decide to become a foster carer this will, of course, have a huge impact on everyone living in your home. The sons and daughters of foster carers will have to share their parents, their toys and their friends, as well as cope with difficult and challenging behaviours. They may find themselves taken into confidence by a child or young person who has suffered abuse.

Despite these difficulties, many say that being part of a foster family has had a positive impact upon them, and helped them to understand others better. If you have sons and/or daughters of your own, speak to them about fostering before you decide to apply and make sure it is a family decision, The whole family should be involved in the assessment process.

So, what do I do now?