There are currently around 83,630 children in care across England and 107,000 across the UK. Of those, around 65% are aged 10 or over, and nearly 21,000 are aged 16+. These figures highlight a growing and urgent need: more foster carers are needed, particularly for older children and teenagers.
Across the country, there is a significant shortage of foster carers — and it’s young people in the older age group who are most affected.
Why teenagers need your support
Older children and teenagers in care are more likely to face instability. Nearly 1 in 5 young people aged 12 or over experience at least two moves in a single year. This instability can make it harder for them to settle, form relationships, and succeed at school.
Many teenagers live in residential care settings — not because that’s what they need, but because there aren’t enough foster families available. Around 8,700 children are currently in residential homes across the UK. Some are there due to the lack of suitable foster placements, others because of behavioural needs or because they require a step-down arrangement from residential care.
What fostering a teenager can offer
Fostering teens can be incredibly positive. Many are independent, in school or college, and value honest conversations. Carers often say they build strong relationships with the teenagers they support and see real change during this key stage of life.
If you have time, space and a willingness to listen, you could help a teenager build a brighter future.
Why fostering teenagers matters
Teenagers are at a pivotal stage of life. They’re growing into adulthood, forming their identity, and facing complex challenges. Fostering a teenager can give them the chance to move forward with confidence, with someone on their side who can offer structure, care, and consistency.
Older children in care need foster families just as much as younger children do — but they’re often overlooked. That’s why we’re calling for more foster carers who are open to supporting teenagers and helping them build brighter futures.
Talk to Unity Foster Care
If you’d like to find out more, ask a few questions or simply chat to someone about what fostering involves, we’re here to help.
Contact us today and take the first step. You might be the person a child needs.