Find why you might be more suitable than you think.
Who can foster?
Fostering offers children and young people the care, stability and security they need. At Unity Foster Care, we know that people from all backgrounds can become excellent foster carers — and many who would be a great fit never take the first step because they assume they won’t qualify.
The truth is, fostering is open to far more people than you might think. What matters most is your ability to provide a safe, nurturing home — not your age, relationship status, or job title.
Do I need to be a certain age?
You must be at least 21 years old to foster. There’s no upper age limit. What’s important is that you’re in good enough health and have the energy and availability to meet a child’s needs. Many people start fostering after raising their own children or changing careers — life experience can be a real strength.
Can I foster if I’m single or don’t have children?
Yes. You can foster whether you’re single, married, divorced, or living with a partner. You don’t need to have children of your own. Some of our carers have grown-up children who’ve moved out; others have younger children at home. What matters is that everyone in the household supports the decision to foster and is ready to welcome a child.
Does my gender, sexuality or ethnic background matter?
No. Fostering is open to people of all genders, sexual orientations and ethnicities. Children in care come from a wide range of backgrounds, and we value carers who reflect that diversity. Your culture, identity and lived experience can help a child feel understood and accepted.
Can I foster if I work?
Yes, you can — depending on your job and the type of fostering you’re interested in. Some placements are more flexible and can work around employment. You’ll need to be financially stable, as there may be short gaps between placements. Foster carers receive an allowance to cover the cost of caring for a child, but it isn’t meant to replace your main income.
Do I need to own my home?
No. You can foster whether you rent or own your home. The key requirement is that you have a spare bedroom. Children in care need their own private space where they feel safe and can settle in.
What if I have a health condition or disability?
You don’t need to be in perfect health to foster. What’s important is your ability to provide safe and consistent care. If you have a health condition or disability, we’ll discuss your situation in detail during the assessment process to make sure fostering is manageable for you.
What makes a good foster carer?
There are a few practical requirements, but fostering is mostly about who you are as a person. The most valued qualities include:
- Patience and understanding
- The ability to listen and communicate
- Staying calm in difficult situations
- Willingness to work with professionals and follow plans
- Commitment to helping a child feel secure and supported
You don’t need to be an expert — we’ll provide full training and ongoing support.
Still not sure if you’re eligible?
It’s common to feel unsure or to think you might not be the “right kind” of person to foster. But in many cases, those assumptions are wrong. If you’re caring, consistent and have space in your life to support a child, we’d love to speak with you.
There’s no pressure or commitment — just an honest conversation.
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.