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Our most popular guides cover the questions that matter most. Written by people who understand the UK fostering system.
What Is Foster Care? A Complete UK Guide
Everything you need to know about foster care in the UK — what it involves, who needs it, and how it differs from adoption.
How Much Do Foster Carers Get Paid?
A transparent breakdown of fostering allowances, fees, and what you can realistically expect to earn as a foster carer in 2025.
Who Can Foster? Requirements Explained
Spare bedroom, DBS checks, age limits, health — we break down every eligibility requirement for becoming a foster carer.
Types of Fostering in the UK
Short-term, long-term, respite, emergency, parent & child, UASC — understand every type of foster care placement.
The Fostering Process: Step by Step
From initial enquiry to panel approval — a clear, honest walkthrough of what happens at every stage of becoming a foster carer.
A Day in the Life of a Foster Carer
What does a typical day actually look like? School runs, social worker visits, bedtime routines, and the unexpected moments.
Not sure if fostering is for you?
FosterReady offers a free 9-week training programme aligned with UK “Skills to Foster” standards. Learn about trauma, attachment, and what daily life really looks like — at your own pace, with no agency contact unless you choose.
9-Week Academy
Skills to Foster aligned curriculum
Family Room
Whole-household learning together
AI Roleplay
Practice real-world scenarios
Form F Ready
Evidence collected as you learn
The fostering toolkit
Whether you're researching, training, or already fostering — these UK-built platforms support every stage of the journey.
FosterReady
Free 9-week training programme. Not an agency — no pressure, no commitment.
Start Free →🔍Find an Agency
Search 465+ Ofsted-registered fostering agencies by location, rating, and type.
Search →📱FosterFlow
AI-powered daily care logging. Voice notes, reports, and a Legal Vault for existing carers.
Explore →🏢AgencySoftware
White-label CRM for agencies. Recruitment, compliance, and placement management.
For Agencies →Common questions
Quick answers to the questions we hear most often.
Do I need to own my home to foster?+
No. You can foster whether you own or rent your home, as long as you have a spare bedroom for the child. Your landlord may need to give consent if you rent.
Can single people foster?+
Absolutely. Single people make excellent foster carers. There is no requirement to be in a relationship. What matters is your ability to provide stability, care, and a safe home.
Is there an upper age limit to foster?+
No. There is no upper age limit for fostering in the UK. Many successful foster carers are in their 50s, 60s, and beyond. Agencies assess your health and ability, not your age.
How long does the assessment take?+
The assessment (Form F) typically takes 4–6 months from initial enquiry to panel approval. This includes training, home visits, references, DBS checks, and a medical assessment.
Can I foster if I work?+
Yes. Many foster carers work, though some placements may require you to be available during school hours. Your agency will discuss flexibility with you during assessment.