Loading...
Loading...
England's fostering system brings together independent agencies and local authorities, all regulated by Ofsted. Whether you're exploring for the first time or ready to find an agency, this guide helps you understand your options.
Foster care provides stability and safety for children who cannot live with their birth families. Whether for a few nights, several months, or long-term, foster carers offer consistent, nurturing environments where children can thrive.
England's fostering framework ensures high standards through Ofsted regulation, mandatory training, and ongoing support for all registered carers. This national consistency means every child and family receives a baseline of quality care, regardless of region or agency.
The need for foster carers is constant. Children come into care for many reasons - family illness, safeguarding concerns, or emergency situations. Each child deserves a safe, predictable home where they can feel valued and supported.
Stability
A safe place to call home
The process follows a clear path from initial enquiry to approval. Each step includes checks, training, and support.
Get in touch to learn more about what's involved.
A social worker visits to answer questions and assess suitability.
Complete training and a comprehensive assessment (Form F).
Become an approved foster foster and start your journey.
The entire process typically takes 4–6 months from your first enquiry to being approved.
Both options are regulated, supportive, and rewarding. Here's a balanced comparison to help you understand the differences.
Private organisations that recruit, train, and support foster carers. Often offer specialist placements and 24/7 support lines.
Each local council runs its own fostering service, directly recruiting and supporting carers for children in their care.
Different children need different types of care.
Each region has its own fostering landscape. Select a region to find local agencies and detailed information.
All agencies are regulated by Ofsted for quality and safety.
Robust safeguarding policies protect children and carers.
Competitive fostering allowances cover the cost of caring.
24/7 support lines, training, and dedicated social workers.
This page helps orient anyone exploring the UK fostering system.
Browse regions to find local agencies, or explore the different types of fostering available.