Foster a child

Foster carers look after somebody else’s child in their own home when the child is unable to live with their birth family. It can be for a short time or a number of years. Foster carers provide a loving, caring environment that every child needs.

Complete the short enquiry form

"I have been a foster carer for over a year now and find it the most rewarding job I have ever done. Children deserve someone to love and appreciate them. I have felt very honoured to be that person to a few young people already."

Alex, Foster Carer

Who can foster

Many types of people can foster. You can be single, married, in a relationship, LGBTQ+, heterosexual, and with or without your own children.

The skills you need

Foster cares need to be:

energetic
good listeners
patient and understand a child’s needs
flexible with your work
a non-smoker

You need to have a spare room

We're pleased to hear from anyone who is interested in fostering, but it's important that you have a spare room.

Talk to us about fostering

If you think you might be interested in fostering, and you have a spare room, we'd like to talk to you. Fill in the form below and we will get in touch. This isn't an application form, it just means you're happy for us to get in touch and talk about fostering with you.

Complete the short enquiry form

Find out more about support

You can learn more about training, support and financial support on our why foster for Southwark page.

Find out more about the fostering process

You can find more information about the fostering process.

Page last updated: 12 December 2023

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