Social Care & Health

Social Services

Fostering

The needs of children and their families are assessed through the Children and Family Teams based throughout East Ayrshire. Services are aimed at supporting children to remain within their own family where at all possible.

When this is no longer an option, many children will require to live away from home. The majority of children will be placed with Foster Carers, some in Residential Units and others in placements outwith the local area.

Recruitment of Foster Carers

The council has an ongoing need to recruit carers who are able to show a commitment to children and who are able to work as part of a caring team. You do not need academic qualifications, be married, own your own home or be in employment. If you are interested in Fostering, you can contact the Family Placement Team as noted below. You will be offered an initial visit followed by an invitation to preparation groups. If you still wish to proceed you will be asked to complete an application form and your assessment will begin. On completion of the assessment you will be presented to the Fostering Panel for your application to be considered and hopefully approved.

The whole process can take from 6 months to a year depending on circumstances.

Support for Foster Carers

Within East Ayrshire Council there are 3 recognised levels of foster carers which are determined by the abilities of the carers and the needs of the children placed with them. Following training, you would be paid an allowance of between £149 and £329 per week depending on the age and needs of the child. In addition to the financial assistance, the council is committed to ensuring that all carers are fully supported and offered the opportunity to develop their maximum potential by way of ongoing training and learning. Start-up equipment will also be provided as well as the provision of agreed respite.

We look forward to hearing from you and will be available to meet with you and answer any outstanding questions you may have.

Continue to online application form

Contact information