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?

A fostering service recruits, trains, assesses and approves foster carers to care for children and young people who require a foster placement. A fostering service will either be part of the local authority or an independent fostering provider (IFP). IFPs are contracted by the local authority to provide appropriate foster care placements. Both types of fostering service are governed by certain regulations and standards, and must provide support, guidance, information and advice about the role of the foster carer and the specific children placed with them.

If you are considering becoming a foster carer, you should research the different fostering services in your area: see our database of fostering services. You should speak to each service and find out what they offer their foster carers in terms of support, allowances, training and fees. Some may also specialise in providing particular types of foster care. Read our choosing a fostering service information sheet (PDF) for guidance on the questions to ask.

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?

So, what do I do now?