Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual or Trans (LGBT+) and thinking about fostering?
From the earliest days of adoption in England, it has been possible for single people (regardless of sexual orientation) to adopt. Same sex couples could not adopt and although adoption agencies helped many couples by approving one of the couple singly, it took a change in law from December 2005 to allow adoption orders to […]
Single and thinking about fostering?
There is nothing unusual about single parenting – around 25% of households in the UK with dependent children are headed by a single parent. Many people plan to have children but as the years pass by they may not find the right partner. Others may be happily single and not looking for a partner. The […]
Fertility issues and thinking about fostering?
Adoption is one of a range of alternatives that you may be considering if you cannot conceive and give birth to a child. You may have experienced miscarriages or secondary infertility. Your options Couples and single people who have fertility issues are faced with a number of possible options including: Assisted conception (IVF and other […]
Concurrent Planning
Concurrent Planning is for babies and young children under 2 in care who are likely to need adoption, but who still have a chance of being reunited with their birth family. Concurrent carers are dually approved as both foster parents and adoptive parents and perform the role of foster carers while the courts decide whether […]
Who can’t foster?
Many people are surprised by the range of people who become foster carers. Foster carers come from different backgrounds, cultures, communities and life experiences. However, fostering is a role that carries significant responsibility, and there are some legal, safeguarding and assessment requirements that all applicants must meet. These are in place to help ensure that […]
Common misconceptions about fostering
If you’re thinking about becoming a foster carer, you may have heard different opinions about who can foster and what fostering involves. Some of these are based on misconceptions that can discourage people from making an enquiry. The best way to find out whether fostering could be right for you is to speak with a […]
Is fostering right for me?
If you are thinking about fostering but are unsure whether it is the right choice for you, taking time to learn more about the role can be a helpful first step. Foster carers play an important role in the lives of children and young people who need a safe, stable and nurturing home. Children may […]
Could I Foster?
Many people who consider fostering wonder whether they have the right qualities, skills or experience to become a foster carer. There is no such thing as a “perfect” foster carer. Children and young people who need foster care are individuals with different personalities, experiences, strengths and needs. What is most important is your ability to […]