Fostering in Wales: Rates, Agencies & Eligibility

Fostering in Wales offers a vital lifeline for children who cannot remain with their birth families. If you are considering opening your home to a child or family, this article provides a clear, evidence‑based overview of what fostering looks like in Wales, how to become a carer, and the support and payments you can expect. All information reflects current official UK fostering guidance and local authority policies.

What fostering is and who it helps

Fostering is a legal arrangement where a child or young person is placed in a safe, nurturing environment run by a trained adult or family. Foster carers provide care, stability and a sense of belonging while the child’s long‑term future is decided by the courts or social services.

Foster care benefits a wide range of children and young people, including those who:

• Have experienced abuse or neglect
• Live in care homes or with family members but need a different environment
• Are awaiting adoption, kinship care or a permanent settlement
• Require specialist support that cannot be met in their current setting

In Wales, the Department for Education and the Welsh Government set the national framework, while local authorities implement the policies and manage day‑to‑day placements.

Benefits and responsibilities of foster carers

Foster carers receive a range of benefits that recognise the extra care and responsibility they provide.

The main benefits include:

• A monthly allowance that covers the child’s living costs, including food, clothing and education expenses.
• Additional payments for specific needs such as medical care, therapy or special equipment.
• Access to training and professional development that helps carers manage complex situations.
• Support from a caseworker or social worker who visits regularly to monitor the child’s welfare and the carer’s well‑being.

In return, foster carers must:

• Provide a safe, stable, and loving home.
• Follow the care plan agreed with social services.
• Attend all training and supervision sessions.
• Maintain accurate records of the child’s progress and any incidents.
• Ensure that the child’s educational and health needs are met.

Eligibility and assessment process

Who can become a foster carer in Wales?

Anyone who meets the basic legal and health criteria can apply. The key requirements are:

• Minimum age of 18, with no upper age limit for those who can provide a suitable environment.
• Good health and a clean criminal record, subject to statutory checks.
• The ability to provide a safe and stable home for a child or young person.
• Willingness to commit to the fostering process, which can last from a few weeks to several years.

Specialised fostering categories – such as for children with complex medical needs or for sibling groups – have additional criteria that are outlined in the Bedroom, Pets and Space Home Requirements guide.

Assessment stages and what to expect

The assessment is a structured process designed to ensure both the child’s safety and the carer’s readiness. It typically follows these stages:

1. Initial Contact – You submit an application and a preliminary interview takes place.
2. Home Visit – A social worker visits your home to assess suitability and safety.
3. Background Checks – Statutory checks, including criminal record, health screening and financial checks, are carried out.
4. Training and Preparation – You attend mandatory training sessions covering child protection, health and safety, and the specific needs of the child.
5. Final Approval – Once all checks are satisfactory, you receive approval to become a foster carer.

Throughout the process, you will receive guidance and support from the local authority or independent agency, ensuring you feel confident and prepared.

Support, training and supervision provided

Initial training

All new foster carers in Wales must complete an initial training programme that covers:

• Child protection and safeguarding principles.
• Health and safety in the home.
• Behaviour management and communication skills.
• Understanding the child’s developmental needs and any special requirements.

Training is delivered by local authorities, independent agencies or through accredited providers, and is often available online or in person.

Ongoing supervision and support

After placement, carers receive regular supervision from a caseworker. Supervision meetings cover:

• Progress and challenges of the child.
• Carer’s well‑being and any support required.
• Updates to the care plan.
• Refresher training sessions or specialist courses.

Support extends beyond formal supervision. Carers can access peer groups, respite care, and mental health resources to maintain resilience and avoid burnout.

Allowances and payment structure

How allowances are calculated

According to official UK fostering guidance, the allowance you receive is based on a combination of the child’s age, any special needs, and the local authority’s funding model. The calculation takes into account:

• The child’s basic living costs.
• Any additional costs for health, therapy or education.
• Transport and travel expenses if the child attends school or appointments outside the local area.
• Holiday or special occasion payments.

The policy ensures that the allowance covers the child’s needs without placing an undue financial burden on the carer.

Additional payments and support

Beyond the base allowance, carers may be eligible for:

• Medical and therapy payments for children with special medical needs.
• Education support for school fees, supplies or extra‑curricular activities.
• Respite care payments if a carer requires temporary relief.
• Travel reimbursements for visits to the child’s birth family or specialist services.

All additional payments are governed by local authority policy and are documented in the care plan.

How to apply for fostering in Wales

Step‑by‑step application

1. Visit your local authority’s fostering page or an independent agency’s website.
2. Complete the online application form, providing basic personal details and reasons for fostering.
3. Schedule an initial telephone or video interview with a caseworker.
4. Attend the required training sessions and submit any requested documents.
5. Undergo statutory checks and a home visit.
6. Receive approval and begin the waiting list process for placement.

During the waiting period, you will receive updates on the progress of your application and any additional information needed.

Documents you will need

Typical documents include:

• Proof of identity and address.
• Recent passport‑size photographs.
• Health and fitness certificates.
• Evidence of any relevant experience or qualifications.
• References from employers or community organisations.

Keep copies of all documents in a secure folder for easy reference.

Local fostering context and agencies including Nearby areas

Local authority fostering in Wales

Each Welsh local authority runs its own fostering programme, operating under the national framework but tailoring support to local needs. For example, The Latest Foster Care Shortage in the UK Explained highlights how some Welsh councils are working to increase recruitment and improve retention.

Independent fostering agencies

Independent agencies in Wales offer an alternative route to becoming a foster carer. They often provide:

• More flexible training schedules.
• Specialised placements for children with particular needs.
• Additional support services, such as respite care and mental health resources.

When choosing between a local authority and an independent agency, consider factors such as the level of support you require, the types of placements you are interested in, and the payment structure.

Connecting with agencies in nearby London and South East England

Wales shares close links with the South East of England, and many foster carers travel between the two regions. If you are based in Wales but wish to access resources or support from agencies in London, you can:

• Consult the Fostering Allowances 2025/26 Explained London South East and Rest of England guide to understand how allowances might differ.
• Reach out to agencies that operate across both Wales and England for cross‑border placements.
• Use online forums and support groups that include carers from both regions.

These connections can broaden your understanding of fostering practices and provide additional support networks.

Common challenges and realistic expectations

Daily challenges

Fostering is rewarding but can be demanding. Common daily challenges include:

• Managing behavioural issues that arise from trauma or disruption.
• Balancing the child’s needs with your own family commitments.
• Adjusting to changes in the child’s routine or education.
• Dealing with emotional responses when the child’s birth family visits.

Being prepared for these challenges and having a support plan in place helps maintain a positive environment for both the child and the carer.

Emotional and practical support

To maintain resilience, carers should:

• Participate in regular peer support groups.
• Utilise respite care to avoid fatigue.
• Seek professional counselling if needed.
• Keep an open line of communication with the caseworker.

By prioritising self‑care, foster carers can provide the best possible care for the child.

FAQs

What is the minimum age to become a foster carer in Wales?

There is no upper age limit, but you must be at least 18 years old and able to provide a suitable home.

Can I foster if I have my own children?

Yes, many foster carers are parents or guardians. The assessment will consider how your existing family will interact with the foster child.

Will I receive maternity or paternity leave as a foster carer?

Foster carers do not receive statutory maternity or paternity leave. However, you may be eligible for certain benefits or leave through your employment if you are working.

How often will a social worker visit my home?

Visits are typically scheduled at least every six weeks, but the frequency can increase if the child’s circumstances change.

Can I foster a child who has a criminal record?

Having a criminal record can affect your application. Each case is assessed individually, and some convictions may be disqualifying.