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Barnardo's
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The largest national children's charity in the UK - building better futures for vulnerable children in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
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Looked after children

Who can foster?

In Short

Barnardo’s welcomes foster carers from all walks of life. Barnardo’s carers come from a variety of backgrounds and have different life experiences, skills and qualities which helps meet the needs of children and young people needing a foster home.

All of their foster carers are different and each brings a unique set of strengths and skills to the role. They consider all of our applicants on an individual basis – whether you’re single or a couple, straight or LGBTQ+, disabled, a homeowner or renting, or whatever your religious or cultural background is, Barnardo’s believes you can foster.

All you need is to:

  • be at least 21 years-old
  • have a spare bedroom big enough for a child or young person to live in
  • to be a full-time resident in the UK or have leave to remain
  • to be able to give the time to care for a child or young person

It’s also important that carers can offer a smoke-free environment.

People often rule themselves out of fostering because of the many myths surrounding fostering, such as ‘I can’t foster if I’m single’ or ‘I can’t foster if I’m gay’ or ‘I can’t foster if I don’t have my own children’.

Check out Barnardo’s Fostering FAQ page to help dispel some of these myths.

Click HERE too for more general information about Barnardo’s.

DISCLAIMER
This article is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. Essential Parent has used all reasonable care in compiling the information from leading experts and institutions but makes no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. For details click here.