Foster Carers Needed in Putney
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Why Putney Needs Foster Carers
Putney enjoys leafy riverside walks and vibrant high streets, yet there are children who cannot remain with their birth families because of neglect, illness or family breakdown. Without enough local carers, these children may be placed miles away, cutting them off from their school on Putney Hill, their friends and their familiar routines. By fostering in Putney you can help children stay anchored in their community.
Fostering in Putney
Local carers keep children connected to their school and extracurricular activities, such as rowing on the Thames or playing football on Putney Heath. A child who stays in the same school is more likely to maintain friendships and achieve academically. Our becoming a foster carer guide explains what to expect. Whether you live in a flat near the High Street or a house on a quiet road, we welcome enquiries from people with room in their lives for a child.
About the Putney Community
Putney sits on the south bank of the Thames at the start of the annual Boat Race, so rowing is part of its identity. Putney Bridge links the area to Fulham, and a riverside path is popular with joggers and families. Putney High Street mixes chain stores with independent shops, pubs and cafés, while Putney Exchange shopping centre offers covered shopping. Further south, Putney Heath provides woodland and open grassland, and nearby Richmond Park is one of London’s largest green spaces. Transport links include Putney railway station, East Putney Underground (District Line) and numerous bus routes.
“Fostering locally has helped us feel more connected to our community. Knowing we’re supporting children from our area makes it even more worthwhile.”
You probably have a lot of questions about fostering.
Could You Become a Foster Carer?
Yes. You can foster as a homeowner or renter, single or partnered. What matters is offering a nurturing, safe environment and working collaboratively with professionals. Check our foster‑carer requirements. We are actively recruiting carers for babies; a spare bedroom may not always be needed if a baby sleeps in your room.
What Kind of Person Makes a Good Foster Carer
Caring, patient people who can provide structure, set boundaries and remain calm in stressful situations make excellent carers. A willingness to learn and adapt is vital.
How to Become a Foster Carer
The process typically lasts up to six months and includes an enquiry, an initial telephone call, a home visit, Skills to Foster training, an assessment and a panel review.
Financial Support For Foster Carers
People don’t become foster carers because of the money. They do it to make a difference in a child’s life.
But it’s equally true that fostering needs to be financially manageable, so that carers can focus fully on providing stability and care.
Foster carers receive a weekly allowance to support them in their role.
At Greater London Fostering, this is currently:
£479.50 per week for children aged 10 and under
£507.50 per week for children aged 11 and over
This payment is made up of two parts. The first is to cover the day-to-day costs of caring for a child, such as food, clothing, activities, and household expenses. The second is a professional reward, recognising the time, commitment, and responsibility involved in fostering.
Foster carers are not expected to manage financially on their own. Alongside the weekly allowance, you will also receive guidance, training, and ongoing support to help you feel confident in your role.
For many people, fostering becomes both a meaningful way to support children and a sustainable role within their household.
If you would like to explore this in more detail, you can read more here:
👉 https://greaterlondonfostering.org/foster-care-money/
Take the First Step
If you’re considering fostering in Putney, the first step is simply to find out more.
You can contact the team here:
https://greaterlondonfostering.org/contact-us/
Or arrange a call back at a time that suits you:
https://greaterlondonfostering.org/lp/arrange-a-call-back/
There’s no pressure — just an opportunity to explore whether fostering could be right for you.
Foster Carers Needed Across Wandsworth
Foster carers are needed across Wandsworth, including in Battersea, Balham, Tooting, Putney, Wandsworth, Earlsfield, Southfields, Roehampton and Clapham Junction.
Local foster carers help children stay connected to their school, friends and community.
FAQs
Will there be a home visit?
Yes. We visit to discuss fostering in more depth, assess safety and answer questions. It isn’t a white‑glove inspection; we want to get to know you.Can I foster if I have pets?
Usually yes. Many animals can be a comfort to children. We consider each animal’s temperament and any allergies or fears a child may have.Can I foster if I come from a completely different career background?
Absolutely. Teachers, nurses, retail staff, drivers – people from all professions foster successfully. Life experience and transferable skills are valuable.Can I foster a baby?
Yes. We need carers for babies. Babies can sleep in your bedroom in a cot until they’re old enough for their own room.What local support is available?
We provide training, support groups and 24/7 advice lines. You’ll also have your own supervising social worker and access to local community networks.