Who can become a foster carer?

Foster carers come from all walks of life, and all ethnic, cultural and religious groups:

• you can be single, living with a partner, in a same sex relationship or married
• you may have children of your own or none at all
• you may be in a secure tenancy or a home owner
• you may live in a flat or a house
• you may or may not be in paid employment

Our children need foster carers who have a number of qualities:

• ability to understand the child, their experiences and to empathise with them when they have been hurt or neglected
• ability to be flexible and adaptable to the child’s needs
• ability to negotiate, compromise and work as part of a team around the child including social work, education and health
• ability to manage behaviour that can feel challenging and remain aware that the child is communicating with you about what they need
• ability to provide guidance to the child
• ability to enjoy the good times and help the child and yourself retain a sense of humour!