Fostering in Nottingham
Nottingham has one of the highest rates of children in care in the East Midlands. The city and surrounding county need significantly more local foster carers.
IFAs are a major part of the placement landscape in Nottingham — with competitive rates and strong specialist training available in the East Midlands.
What Fostering Looks Like in Nottingham
Nottingham City and Nottinghamshire County are two separate authorities with combined responsibility for over 1,100 looked-after children. Nottingham City has faced financial pressures that have impacted children's services, increasing the urgency of local foster carer recruitment. The wider East Midlands — Leicester, Derby, Lincoln, Northampton — also has significant fostering need. IFAs operating in the region offer competitive packages and are an important part of the placement landscape.
Types of Fostering Available in Nottingham
Local Authority Fostering Contacts
Contact your local authority directly, or read our guide on LA vs IFA fostering before deciding.
| Local Authority | Phone | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Nottingham City Council | 0115 876 3576 | nottinghamcity.gov.uk/fostering |
| Nottinghamshire County Council | 0300 500 8080 | nottinghamshire.gov.uk/fostering |
| Derby City Council | 01332 716716 | derby.gov.uk/fostering |
| Derbyshire County Council | 01629 536232 | derbyshire.gov.uk/fostering |
How Much Do Foster Carers Earn in Nottingham?
Most LAs pay a weekly allowance only. A small number pay an additional professional fee for experienced carers.
IFAs pay a weekly allowance plus a professional fee. Most IFA carers pay zero income tax thanks to HMRC’s Qualifying Care Relief.
Want to understand these figures in more detail? Read our complete foster carer pay guide or our tax guide for foster carers.
Frequently Asked Questions — Fostering in Nottingham
Can I apply to both Nottingham City and Nottinghamshire County?
You can only be approved with one agency at a time, but you can explore both and decide which to apply with. Some carers switch after initial approval.
Ready to Start Fostering in Nottingham?
The next step is to speak with an agency or your local authority. Most fostering enquiries take just 10 minutes and carry no obligation.