Is there an age limit for foster parents?

Younger foster carers

We have a number of younger foster carers in our team and we’re really keen to recruit more carers – whether straight, gay, married or single – because they’re closer to children in age and we know they have plenty to offer. You don’t need experience either, as we provide full training.

You might be surprised to learn that fostering, with its training, potential and rewards – is able to offer a varied and satisfying long-term career, so the benefits are significant. However, it’s also important to understand that it requires a big time commitment and you’ll need to accommodate the child in your life including evenings and weekends.

If you’re interested, please get in touch. With the support and training we offer and all the events and activities we organise, fostering might be a great career choice for you – one that brings you great satisfaction, a new network of friends, and a real opportunity to grow and develop.

Is there a maximum age for fostering?

There’s no maximum age limit for fostering so we welcome applications from older people, provided you have the energy to cope with the everyday physical demands of caring for young children – such as the school run and supporting them in play activities. As part of your assessment, everyone is required to have a medical examination with your local GP to make sure fostering is suitable for you.

In summary, foster carers come from all walks of life and ages, and there’s no ‘ideal’ type. What matters most is the care, skills and commitment you’re able to bring to the work. So if you think you have what it takes, please speak to our team today.

Speak to our team

How to become a foster carer

To become a foster carer there are six steps you’ll complete, the process can take between four and six months.

Fostering finance calculator

The amount you receive in foster care payments varies from placement to placement. Factors such as needs and requirements, along with the age of the child being placed with you and the type of placement, can all affect the allowances and fostering payments you’ll receive.

FIND OUT WHAT PAYMENTS YOU COULD RECEIVE

Frequently asked questions

What is the minimum age for becoming a foster carer?

As long as you’re over 21, fostering isn’t about your age – it’s about the energy and commitment that you bring to the role.

Find out more.

Is there a maximum age to foster?

There really is no maximum age limit for fostering with us and many of our foster carers continue to foster well into their 70s.

All we ask is that you’re still able to fulfill the more active side of fostering – such as the school run and outdoor activities – and that you can do so with enthusiasm and energy.

Find out more.

Can I still work and be a foster carer?

Ideally we ask for at least one foster carer to be available for fostering on a full-time basis, so that we can ensure that the child or young person in your care is being looked after in the best way possible. As a foster carer, you have responsibility for day-to-day tasks; the school run, be available during school holidays, attend medical appointments on behalf or with your child, attend training, review meetings. Should you have a problem on an odd occasion, your supervising social worker can help you make alternative arrangements.

I’m now retired, am I able to foster?

Yes absolutely. We look for potential foster carers who can dedicate their time and experience to supporting children and young people, and many people find that retirement gives them this opportunity.

Find out more.

Speak to our team

Whether you’re ready to start your journey or just want to chat to an expert, we’re here to talk.

Enquiry Form

You are required to have a spare bedroom that’s always available to a foster child. The spare room cannot be shared, and must be big enough to fit a single bed, a wardrobe and a chest of drawers.

Do you have a spare room?*

To be approved as a foster carer in the UK, you must be a British citizen or have the legal right to remain in the UK without restrictions that would prevent fostering.

Which of the following applies to you?*

How can we help you with your enquiry?*

The following questions are intended to help us understand your experience with children. Please note that prior experience is not required to become a foster carer, as full training will be provided.

Have you had children of your own?*

Do you have professional experience of working with children?*

Have you had any prior experience of fostering, such as being a foster parent or growing up in a fostering family?*

Have you ever adopted a child?*

Are you happy to receive regular fostering news from us?*

Yes

No

First Name*

Last Name*

Phone Number*

Email Address*

Postcode*