Government Foster Care Strategy Breakdown: What’s Changing?

Fostering is a vital part of the UK child‑care system, giving children a stable home while they await permanent placement. In 2025 the Department for Education announced a new strategy that reshapes funding, training and the partnership between local authorities and independent agencies. This article explains the key changes for prospective carers in Manchester and the surrounding areas of Salford, Bolton, Stockport and Oldham, and offers practical guidance on how to get involved.

What fostering is and who it helps

The core idea of fostering

Fostering places a child in a temporary, safe home run by a trained adult or couple. Unlike kinship care, foster homes are not related to the child’s family but are chosen for their ability to meet the child’s needs. The goal is to provide a nurturing environment that supports the child’s development and, where possible, keeps them close to their birth family.

Who benefits from fostering?

Children in care, especially those who have experienced trauma or instability, gain continuity of care and emotional support. Foster carers receive professional guidance and a sense of purpose, while local authorities are able to manage caseloads more efficiently.

Benefits and responsibilities of foster carers

Personal and professional rewards

Carers often describe a profound sense of fulfilment. They help shape a child’s future, gain new skills in parenting and conflict resolution, and receive ongoing support from social workers.

Key responsibilities

• Providing a safe, stable environment that meets the child’s physical, emotional and educational needs.
• Following the care plan set out by the local authority and attending regular reviews.
• Maintaining accurate records of visits, medication and any incidents.
• Co‑operating with professionals to support the child’s progress.

Eligibility and assessment process

Who can become a foster carer?

Applicants must be at least 18, have a suitable home with a spare bedroom, and pass a rigorous assessment that includes background checks, a medical review and a home visit. Single adults, couples, same‑sex partners and parents with children of their own are all eligible, provided they meet the criteria.

The assessment stages

1. Initial enquiry – Submit an online form and attend an introductory meeting.
2. Home visit – A social worker checks the suitability of the home and discusses expectations.
3. Background checks – Police, child‑minding and financial checks are carried out.
4. Training and induction – Successful applicants complete a mandatory course covering child safety, first aid and safeguarding.
5. Placement readiness – Once training is complete, carers are matched with children.

Support, training and supervision provided

Ongoing training programmes

Carers receive regular training that covers new legislation, therapeutic approaches for trauma and practical parenting skills. The new strategy increases the frequency of these sessions, ensuring carers stay up to date.

Supervision and support

Each carer is assigned a dedicated social worker who conducts visits at least every four weeks. Carers can also access peer support groups, counselling services and a 24‑hour helpline for urgent concerns.

Allowances and payment structure explanation

According to official UK fostering guidance and local authority policies, payments are designed to cover the child’s basic needs and any additional care requirements. The structure is:

• Base allowance – Covers accommodation, food, clothing and general living expenses.
• Additional allowance – Applies when the child has special medical or educational needs, or when the carer is providing care for a longer term.
• Discretionary payments – Local authorities may offer extra support for carers in high‑cost areas or for children with complex histories.

Payments are reviewed annually and adjusted to reflect changes in the child’s needs or the carer’s circumstances.

How to apply for fostering in Manchester

Step‑by‑step guide

1. Visit the Manchester City Council website and locate the fostering section.
2. Complete the online application form, providing personal details, home information and a short statement of why you want to foster.
3. Attend an introductory meeting with a local authority social worker.
4. Undergo the home visit, background checks and training.
5. Once cleared, you will receive a formal invitation to begin placement.

Applicants are encouraged to read How to Become a Foster Carer in England Step By Step Guide for additional tips and a deeper understanding of the process.

Local fostering context and agencies including Salford, Bolton, Stockport and Oldham

Manchester’s fostering landscape

Manchester’s local authority has partnered with several independent agencies to meet the growing demand for foster homes. The strategy emphasises collaboration, ensuring that each child receives a consistent level of care regardless of the agency involved.

Key agencies in the region

• Manchester Foster Homes Ltd. – Provides short‑term, long‑term and therapeutic placements.
• Salford Care Agency – Focuses on children with complex medical needs.
• Bolton Independent Care – Specialises in adolescent and teenage fostering.
• Stockport Foster Network – Offers support for families who wish to foster children with siblings.
• Oldham Foster Care – Works closely with local schools to support educational attainment.

For a balanced view of local authority versus independent fostering, see Local Authority vs Independent Fostering Agency.

Common challenges and realistic expectations

Managing expectations

New carers often underestimate the emotional demands of fostering. Children may experience anxiety, trauma or attachment issues that require patience and professional support.

Practical hurdles

• Adjusting a home’s layout to meet safety standards.
• Coordinating with schools and healthcare providers.
• Balancing work commitments with the child’s needs.

Support mechanisms

Carers are encouraged to utilise peer groups, respite care and the local authority’s supervision schedule. The new strategy expands respite options, making it easier for carers to take time off when needed.

5 Search‑Intent FAQs

What is the latest foster care shortage in the UK and how does it affect Manchester?

The Department for Education highlighted a national shortage of suitable foster homes. Manchester’s local authority has responded by increasing funding for training and offering additional support to existing carers, thereby expanding capacity.

How are fostering allowances calculated and what changes have been announced for 2025‑26?

Allowances are tiered by child age, health needs and placement duration. The 2025‑26 policy update, detailed in Fostering Allowances 2025‑26 Explained London South East And Rest Of England, introduces new discretionary payments for high‑cost areas and for children with complex care needs.

Can I foster if I live in a rented property?

Yes, as long as the tenancy agreement allows for a child to reside in the home and the landlord consents. The local authority will confirm suitability during the home visit.

What training is required before I can start a placement?

Carers must complete a statutory induction course covering child safety, first aid, safeguarding and the local authority’s specific procedures. Ongoing training is provided throughout the placement.

Will fostering affect my Universal Credit or other benefits?

Fostering may alter your benefit entitlement. The local authority will advise on any changes, and you can contact the benefits office for guidance on adjustments.

For more detailed information on the policy changes and how they impact fostering in Manchester, refer to The Latest Foster Care Shortage in the UK Explained.