Frequently Asked Questions
Do you want to know more about becoming a foster carer in the UK? You’ve come to the right place. Our team have provided all the answers you need to our most frequently asked questions about fostering.
How much do you get paid to be a foster carer in the UK?
When you become part of the Focus Foster Care family you will benefit from a generous allowance, as well as receiving friendly support and a professional service. For further information regarding payments please request an information pack.
Do foster carers get paid when they don't have a placement?
As foster carers are self employed. We are only able to make payments when a child or young person is placed with you.
How long does it take to become a foster carer?
The whole process will usually take approximately 6 months, during that time we will appoint a social worker who will assess your suitability to be a foster carer.
Can you work and be a foster carer?
Foster carers are able to continue working, but we do ask that you have the flexibility within your family to ensure that you can meet the needs of a child. Work commitments and the impact they have on a carer’s time and availability will be assessed on an individual basis.
What support will I get from Focus Foster Care?
When you become an approved foster carer you will be allocated a supervising social worker who will meet with you regularly. We are also available 24 hours a day should you need us.
What training do foster carers receive?
There is a comprehensive training programme which assists carers in reflecting on their practice and improving their skills. Your supervising social worker will work with you through supervision to identify areas of specific training relevant to the children that you are caring for.
Do foster children have to have their own bedrooms?
Foster children should always have their own bedroom.
Can I foster if I am single?
Yes, you can foster if you are single. Lots of foster carers are single.
Can I foster if I am renting?
Foster carers do not have to own their own home but we will require your landlords approval in writing.
Can you be a foster carer and not drive?
Ordinarily we do require a member of the household to drive. However, in some cases we can accept carers who don’t have access to a vehicle if they live in an area with good transport links.
Can you foster if you have a criminal record in the uk?
Everyone’s background and experience is different so we assess each applicant on their own merits. The most important thing is that you are completely honest and open with us at every stage of your assessment.
Learn More
Explore our website to learn more about our independent fostering agency
Read our blog
Discover foster carer interviews, helpful advice and real life fostering stories on the Focus blog.
Benefits
Learn the many benefits of joining the Focus Foster Care fostering family.
Meet the team
Check out our About Us page to get to know our friendly and dedicated team.
Downloads
Head to our Downloads page to read our full Ofsted report and other important documents.
Become a Focus foster carer
If you’re interested in fostering children and young people in your community, we’d love to connect with you. At Focus Foster Care, our dedicated team is here to nurture childhoods and support our foster carers at every step of the way. To apply, simply click the button below and fill out our contact form. A friendly member of our team will reach out to you soon. We look forward to hearing from you.