Frequently Asked Fostering Questions
We've answered a few of the questions we are frequently asked:
Find out about fostering:
everything you need to know before deciding to become a foster carer
Fostering is a big decision, and it’s completely natural to have questions before taking the next step. For many people, fostering is something they have thought about for some time, but there are often uncertainties around what it involves, whether it would work in practice, and whether they would be suitable. At Greater London Fostering, we expect people to have questions. In fact, asking them is an important part of the process. Our role is to give you clear, honest information so you can make the decision that feels right for you, without any pressure. If you’re thinking about fostering, you probably have a lot of questions. We’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions from people who are interested in fostering. Have a look through the answers, but if there is anything that hasn’t been answered, simply give us a call on 0208 3478741 or download our guide at the bottom of the page.
Why Should You Join Greater London Fostering?
There are many fostering agencies, both local and nationwide, and it’s important to find one where you feel comfortable and supported.
Your relationship with your fostering agency plays a key role in your experience as a foster carer. It’s not just about processes or training — it’s about having the right people around you when things feel uncertain, and knowing you are not managing alone.
So why Greater London Fostering?
We are one of the UK’s longest established independent fostering agencies, with over 20 years of experience supporting foster carers and children. Over that time, we’ve developed an approach that focuses not just on outcomes, but on how support is provided day to day.
What many of our carers value most is our family feel. We work hard to create a genuine sense of community, where carers feel known, supported and able to reach out when they need to.
We also have a clear and consistent focus — to improve the lives of children in care. That guides everything we do, from how we support our carers to how we approach each placement.
Who can foster?
There are many children across London who need foster care, and not enough foster carers to meet that need.
So, who can foster?
Foster carers come from all kinds of backgrounds, and there is no single “type” of person who fosters. What matters most is your ability to provide a safe, stable and nurturing home where a child can feel supported and cared for.
You don’t need to be married, own your home, or have formal qualifications. Many people bring the right skills through life experience — patience, understanding, resilience and a genuine commitment to helping a child through a difficult time.
There are some essential requirements. In most cases, you will need a spare bedroom so a child has their own space. You will also need the time and flexibility to meet a child’s needs.
There are certain circumstances that may prevent someone from fostering, particularly convictions relating to children or serious offences. However, every situation is considered carefully, and it’s always worth having a conversation rather than ruling yourself out.
If you’re unsure whether fostering could be right for you, the best next step is simply to find out more. You can speak to our team, or explore our guide to fostering, which answers many of the questions people have at the early stages.
👉 https://greaterlondonfostering.org/contact-us/
👉 https://greaterlondonfostering.org/becoming-a-foster-carer/
Why Do Children Need To Be Fostered
There are many reasons why children may need to be fostered, and every situation is different.
In most cases, it is because a child’s birth family is going through difficulties that mean they are not able to provide safe or consistent care at that time. This might be due to a range of challenges, and the decision is always made by the local authority with the child’s wellbeing as the priority.
Sometimes fostering is needed because of a sudden change in circumstances, such as a family emergency, where parents need additional support. In these situations, foster care can provide stability while things are being resolved.
Fostering can be short-term or longer-term, depending on what is right for the child. What remains consistent is the importance of providing a safe, caring and stable environment during a time of uncertainty.
Across the UK, thousands of children enter care each year, and many of them are supported by foster families. This highlights the ongoing need for foster carers who can provide local, stable homes for children when they need it most.
If you feel you could offer that support to a child, fostering is a meaningful way to make a difference in your community.
Our top 5 questions:
01.
Can I foster if I’m working?
Yes, in many cases you can still foster if you are working.
Some foster carers continue in employment, while others choose to foster full-time. What matters most is whether you can meet the needs of a child alongside your existing commitments.
Fostering often requires time, flexibility and availability, particularly for appointments, school-related commitments, and supporting a child’s routine. Because of this, it’s important to think realistically about how fostering would fit into your day-to-day life.
If you do work, we would look at the support you have around you. This might include family members, friends or other trusted people who can help when needed. Having a reliable support network can make a significant difference.
It can also be helpful to have an understanding and flexible employer, especially where adjustments to working hours may be needed.
Our priority is always the wellbeing and safety of the child, so we need to be confident that there will be appropriate care and supervision in place, particularly outside of school hours.
If you’re unsure how fostering could work alongside your job, the best approach is to talk it through with us. We can help you explore what might be possible based on your individual situation.
If you’d like to find out more about fostering, you can read more here:
👉 https://greaterlondonfostering.org/becoming-a-foster-carer/
02.
Do I have to have a qualification to foster?
You do not need a formal childcare qualification to become a foster carer.
What matters most is your ability to care for and support a child in a safe, stable and nurturing environment. Many people already have relevant experience, even if they don’t initially recognise it. This might come from raising your own children, supporting family members, babysitting, or simply having experience of caring for others.
Some people do come from professional backgrounds such as education or childcare, but this is not a requirement.
What’s important is that you are open to learning and developing your skills. As part of the fostering process, you will receive training to help prepare you for the role, including the Skills to Foster programme.
Once approved, you will continue to build your knowledge and confidence through ongoing training. At Greater London Fostering, we offer a wide range of courses to support carers at every stage, helping you develop the skills you need to provide the best possible care.
Even if you’re unsure whether your experience is enough, it’s always worth having a conversation. Many people are more suitable than they first think.
03.
Can I foster if I have pets?
Yes, in many cases you can foster if you have pets.
In fact, pets can be a positive part of a fostering household. Many children benefit from being around animals, and pets can help provide comfort, routine and a sense of calm, particularly for children who may be feeling unsettled.
What’s important is that any pets in the home are well cared for, and that the environment is safe and suitable for a child. As part of the assessment process, we will talk through your home setup and carry out any necessary checks to make sure everything is appropriate.
Some types of pets, or certain dog breeds, may require additional consideration due to safety. This is always approached on a case-by-case basis, with the child’s wellbeing as the priority.
If you have pets and are unsure whether fostering would be possible, it’s always worth having a conversation. In many situations, pets can be a real asset to a fostering household.
04.
Can I foster if I’m gay?
Yes — your sexuality does not affect your ability to become a foster carer.
Foster carers come from a wide range of backgrounds, and what matters most is your ability to provide a safe, stable and supportive home for a child. Being part of the LGBTQ+ community is absolutely not a barrier to fostering.
In fact, fostering benefits from diversity. Children need carers who are understanding, accepting and able to provide a nurturing environment, and this is not defined by sexuality.
The LGBTQ+ community is still underrepresented in fostering, and there is a real opportunity to make a difference. What’s important is that you can offer care, stability and commitment to a child who needs support.
If you are considering fostering, the best next step is simply to find out more and explore whether it could be right for you.
05.
Can I foster if I’m single?
Yes, you can absolutely foster if you are single.
You do not need to be married or in a relationship to become a foster carer. Many people foster on their own and provide safe, stable and nurturing homes for children.
What matters most is your ability to offer consistency, care and support. As a single carer, it’s also helpful to have a reliable support network around you, such as friends, family or others who can offer help when needed.
Fostering as a single person can be incredibly rewarding, and many carers find they are able to build strong, meaningful relationships with the children they care for.
If you’re considering fostering on your own, it’s always worth having a conversation to explore how it could work in practice for you.
How do you start fostering?
Becoming an approved foster carer is a structured process that usually takes up to 6 months. During this time, you’ll get to know us as an agency, and we’ll take time to understand you, your experience and your household.
This process is important. Fostering works best when there is a strong, trusting relationship between carers and their agency, and that can only be built over time. You’ll be supported throughout, with opportunities to ask questions and gain a clear understanding of what fostering involves.
Getting started is simple. The first step is just a conversation, where you can find out more and explore whether fostering could be right for you.
You can call us on 020 8347 8741, or request a call back here:
👉 https://greaterlondonfostering.org/lp/arrange-a-call-back/
There’s no pressure — just a chance to take that first step and see if fostering feels right for you.
You probably have a lot more questions about fostering.
Luckily we have a lot of experience, so can usually answer them honestly. We are really happy to have an informal chat with you, about fostering, whether you are suitable, and what it’s really like. So why not arrange a 15 minute call – we promise you it will save you several hours of searching the internet for answers, plus, we really love talking to people about fostering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I foster if I live in London?
Yes. Greater London Fostering supports carers across London and surrounding areas, and there is always a need for local foster carers.
Do I need a spare bedroom to foster?
In most cases, yes. A child will usually need their own bedroom. However, for baby fostering, a spare bedroom may not always be required.
Can I foster without experience?
Yes. Many foster carers do not have formal experience. What matters most is your ability to provide a safe, stable and caring home.
How much do foster carers get paid?
Foster carers receive £479.50 per week for children aged 10 and under, and £507.50 per week for children aged 11 and over.
How long does it take to become a foster carer?
The process usually takes up to 6 months and includes training, assessment and approval through a fostering panel.
Can I foster if I work full time?
It is sometimes possible, depending on your flexibility and support network. The key is being able to meet the needs of a child.
Can I foster if I am single?
Yes. Many foster carers are single. What matters is your ability to provide a stable and supportive home.
Can I foster if I am part of the LGBTQ+ community?
Yes. Your sexuality does not affect your ability to foster. What matters is the care and stability you can provide.
Can I foster if I have pets?
Yes. Pets can often be a positive part of a fostering household, as long as they are safe and well cared for.
Do I need to own my home to foster?
No. You can foster if you rent, as long as you have a stable living arrangement and permission from your landlord.
What age children will I foster?
Children of all ages may need foster care, from babies through to teenagers. Placements are matched based on your experience and preferences.
Will I get support as a foster carer?
Yes. You will have a dedicated social worker, access to training, and 24/7 support whenever you need it.
Can I choose the children I care for?
You will always be involved in the matching process, and placements are only made when they feel right for you.
What happens if fostering doesn’t work out?
You will be supported throughout. If challenges arise, your agency will work with you to find the best solution for you and the child.
How do I start the process?
The first step is simply to get in touch. You can have an informal conversation to find out more before making any decisions.