Fostering provides a safe, stable and caring home for children who are unable to live with their birth parents. From newborn babies to teenagers, thousands of young people are placed into care every year, increasing the demand for foster carers across the UK.

Ultimately, fostering is about protecting the welfare of a child in need. It's about being a mentor to someone who has had a difficult start to life, and giving them the best possible chance at a brighter future. You can make a difference to a young person's life by applying to foster a child!

The role of a foster carer is about providing security and guidance to a young person in need. You'll be their foster parent, friend, mentor and advisor - all wrapped in one!

As well as a home to live in, you'll also provide financial and emotional support to your foster child, and help them in whatever way they need. This may be homework, new clothes or even just as a friend to talk to when they're upset.

Working with your Supervising Social Worker, you'll ensure your foster child feels safe and secure in their new home. You'll also be responsible for taking them to school/college and keeping a diary of their daily activities, so your SSW and the Local Authority can make sure your foster child is settled and flourishing in their new environment! 

Anyone can become a foster carer! As long as you're over the age of 25 with a spare bedroom and a UK citizenship, you're eligible for fostering! 

Unity Foster Care are an inclusive agency and welcome all applicants, including single parents, senior couples and members of the LGBTQ+ community!

Yes! We understand that welcoming a foster child into your home can have a financial impact. As a guide, we offer between £350-£750 per week when your placement starts. As well as our very generous allowance, we provide free training and regular social events to say thanks for all your hard work!

You can find out more about our fostering pay by visiting our fostering pay and allowances page!

The average application takes between 4-6 months to complete, but can differ depending on the situation. However, we like to get you to our fostering panel in the shortest time possible.

There are several stages to the application process, including:

• Telephone screening/home visit
• Home assessment
• References & checks
• Fostering panel
• Final decision

You can find out more about the process of becoming a foster carer here!

We'd recommend starting your application as soon as possible to get the ball rolling!