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Who can apply?

You can apply to be a foster carer:

• whether you have your own children or not
• if you are single, married or living with a partner
• if you are in or out of work
• whether you live in your own home or rent
• whatever your race, religion or sexuality

Applying to become a foster carer

If you are interested in becoming a foster carer, the first thing you should do is contact your local fostering service (either the social services department of your local council or an independent fostering agency) and arrange a meeting. They will explain what fostering involves and will help you decide whether you are right for fostering.

The first link below will let you enter details of where you live and then take you to your local authority website where you can find out more about fostering.

The second link will help you find an independent fostering agency in your area.

• Find out about fostering a child Opens new window

• Find your local fostering agency Opens new window

Once it has been decided you are suitable to become a foster carer, The Criminal Records Bureau will check that you have not committed an offence which would exclude you from fostering. You will also have a health check, to rule out any health problems.

A social worker will then help you fill in an application form and you will be asked to attend a group preparation session with other people who are applying.

Finally your application will be sent to an independent fostering panel, which will recommend whether or not you can become a foster carer. This can take up to six months.

More useful links

• The Fostering Network - Could You Foster? Opens new window

• British Association for Adoption and Fostering Opens new window

Useful contacts

• Parents contacts