Call: 0800 408 4710
We Are Here To Guide You
Speak to a foster care adviser now.
Call: 0800 408 4710
What is Fostering?
Fostering is caring for a child, children or young person/s in your home where they can feel valued, cared for, and respected as a family member, doing the things you do as a family together like going on days out, holidays and everyday family life activities
There are many reasons that lead to children and young people needing a foster home such as illness within the family, relationship problems, family breakdown, alcohol and/or drug issues or when a child or young person is being abused. Foster carers play a vital role in providing a safe, secure and stable environment
The length of time that children and young people live with a foster family can vary from days to years depending on their individual circumstances. The decision is made by the Local Authority and forms part of the child or young person’s Care Plan.
Types of Fostering Arrangements
Fostering arrangements fall into the categories shown below. The assessment process will help you to consider which types of fostering would best suit your household.
Short Breaks Care
Emergency Fostering Arrangements
Short Term Fostering Arrangements
Sibling Groups
Remand Arrangements
Unaccompanied Minors
Long Term or Permanent
Where foster carers commit to care for children until they are eighteen (and sometimes beyond). These type of fostering arrangements are usually planned over a period of time.
Parent and Child Arrangements
Time-limited arrangements for families who need additional support together.
Children with Disabilities
Children who need increased support and care.
Sarah - Futures for Children
"As a foster carer, it is important that you work with a company that is able to fully support both the children and foster carers.
A lot of carers from Local Authorities and other Agencies come to us and feel that there could be more done for themselves and the looked after children."
Thinking about becoming a foster carer?
We’re so glad you’re interested in fostering with Futures Group!
Foster carers play a vital role in changing children’s lives and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
To help your application move forward smoothly, please check that you meet these basic requirements:
You have a spare bedroom
You’re aged 21 or over (there’s no upper age limit)
You have some experience with children or young people
You have British Citizenship or Leave to Remain in the UK
We welcome people from all walks of life, whether you're single, married, or in a couple, with or without children and from all cultural, religious, and ethnic backgrounds.
Together, we can make a real difference.
CONTACT US:
Fill in the form
Call 0800 408 4710
Email enquiries@futures-group.org
Fostering FAQ
If you have any questions regarding fostering or what Futures for Children offer in terms of fostering arrangements, please don't hesitate to get in touch.
Do I need any qualifications?
Nope! You don’t need any special qualifications, just some experience with children and the passion to make a difference in a young person’s life.
What kind of children need fostering?
All sorts! From babies to teens, even young parents with their own child. Every child is different, but they all need love, safety, and support.
Can I chose the age of the child I foster?
We’ll work with you to make sure any child placed with you fits well with your family, especially if you have children of your own.
Can I still work and be a foster carer?
Yes, lots of our carers do! It depends on your job, but we’ll chat about how fostering could fit around your working hours.
What if I don’t know what to do in a tricky situation?
You’ll never be left on your own. You’ll have a social worker to support you, plus access to a 24/7 support line, every day of the year.
What’s the fostering assessment like?
It’s a chance for us to get to know each other. An assessor will visit you a few times and write a report about your life and home. We also do background checks, but don’t worry — we’ll guide you through the whole process.
Will I get to meet other foster carers?
Definitely. We run support groups, events, and training where you can chat and share experiences. You can even be matched with a peer mentor.
What happens if a placement doesn’t work out?
We get it, sometimes things don’t go to plan. If that happens, we’ll support you and the child to make any changes as smoothly as possible.
Will I have a say in who comes to live with me?
Yes, you’ll never be forced to say yes to supporting a child or young person. We’ll always talk to you first and give you all the info before any decision is made.
What support will I get?
You’ll have a named social worker, regular check-ins, 24/7 support, and access to ongoing training. You’re never on your own.
Is training provided?
Yes, and it’s great! You’ll start with preparation training, then continue learning as you go, with workshops, online courses and more.
Do I need to own my home?
Nope. Renting is fine! You just need permission from your landlord and a stable tenancy. The child will need their own bedroom.
Do I need to have kids of my own to foster?
Not at all. But if you’ve got experience with children, even through work, that’s a big plus.
What types of fostering do you offer?
Lots! Long-term, short-term, emergency, parent and child placements, and support for children with disabilities.
Do I need to be married?
Nope. Single, married, living with a partner, civil partnership, what matters is that you can offer a safe, loving home.
Am I too old to foster?
There’s no upper age limit. If you’re over 21 and healthy enough to care for a child, you’re good to go.
Do I have to be a British Citizen?
You need to be a British citizen or have Indefinite Leave to Remain, so the child’s home life stays stable and secure.
We Are Here To Guide You
Speak to a foster care adviser now.
Call: 0800 408 4710
Want to know if you would be better off with us?
* All our carers are paid above
the Fostering Network Payment Guidelines.
(Made to each fostering household with a child or young person in their care).