Foster Carer Stories
in Richmond
Real Experiences of Fostering in Richmond
Every foster carer’s journey is different, but many share a common goal — to provide a safe, stable home for a child who needs it.
Across the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames, foster carers support children through some of the most challenging periods of their lives. Whether a child stays for a few weeks or much longer, the impact of a stable home can be significant.
Foster carers often describe the experience as both challenging and rewarding. While no two days are the same, many say that seeing a child begin to feel safe, settled and confident again is what makes fostering worthwhile.
Why Local Foster Carers Matter
One of the things foster carers often reflect on is how important it is for children to remain connected to their local area.
Being placed with a foster carer in Richmond can mean:
staying at the same school
keeping friendships
continuing activities and routines
remaining close to familiar places
These connections help children feel more secure and supported during times of uncertainty.
This is why there is an ongoing need for foster carers across Richmond, including areas such as Twickenham, Teddington, Hampton, Barnes and Kew.
What Foster Carers Say
Many of the foster carers we work with talk about similar experiences when they begin:
“We weren’t sure if we’d be good enough at first, but the support we received made all the difference.”
“It’s not always easy, but seeing a child settle and feel safe makes it worthwhile.”
“You don’t need to be perfect — just consistent, patient and willing to care.”
Fostering is not about having all the answers. It’s about being there for a child and helping them feel safe and supported.
Fostering in Richmond
Richmond upon Thames is a diverse borough made up of a range of communities, from riverside areas like Richmond and Twickenham to quieter residential areas such as Hampton and Ham.
Foster carers play a vital role in helping children stay connected to these communities.
If you are interested in fostering, you can learn more about the process here:
👉 https://greaterlondonfostering.org/becoming-a-foster-carer/
We asked our carer Jacqui, what's the best thing about fostering?
“We didn’t feel like ‘experts’ when we started, but we knew we could offer a safe and caring home — and that’s what mattered.”
You probably have a lot of questions about fostering.
Could You Become a Foster Carer?
Many people who go on to foster don’t initially see themselves as “typical” foster carers.
Foster carers come from a wide range of backgrounds. What matters most is your ability to provide a safe, stable and supportive home.
You will usually need a spare bedroom. However:
Greater London Fostering is actively recruiting baby-only foster carers.
In these cases, a spare bedroom may not always be required, as babies can sleep in a cot in your bedroom.
You can find more information here:
👉 https://greaterlondonfostering.org/foster-carer-requirements/
What Makes a Good Foster Carer?
Foster carers often say that it’s the everyday things that matter most.
People who foster successfully tend to:
provide consistency and routine
offer patience and understanding
support children through change
work alongside professionals
create a calm and stable home
It’s not about being perfect — it’s about being reliable and caring.
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. Allowances are paid per child and only while a child is placed with you, and the amount varies with the child’s age and needs.
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 are thinking about fostering, the first step is simply to find out more.
There is no pressure — just a chance to have a conversation and see if fostering could be right for you.
👉 https://greaterlondonfostering.org/contact-us/
👉 https://greaterlondonfostering.org/lp/arrange-a-call-back/