Deciding to foster a child is a generous step that can transform lives. If you are married, divorced, or living with a partner, you might wonder how these personal circumstances affect your eligibility. This guide clarifies the legal framework, the practicalities, and the support you’ll receive in Manchester and its neighbouring areas such as Salford, Stockport, and Bolton.
Understanding the Legal Landscape
Fostering is regulated by the Children and Families Act 2014 and local authority policies. The law recognises that a stable home environment is essential for a child’s well‑being, regardless of the carer’s marital status. The main points are:
- Married carers: No restrictions; the spouse is considered part of the household and is involved in the assessment.
- Divorced or separated carers: The former partner’s involvement depends on the nature of the divorce settlement and any ongoing financial or custodial arrangements. If the ex‑spouse is a co‑carer, they must be included in the assessment.
- Cohabiting carers: Living with a partner is acceptable. The partner will be assessed as part of the household, just as a spouse would be.
- Single carers: Single status does not prevent fostering; the focus is on the suitability of the home.
All carers, whether single or part of a couple, must meet the same health, safety, and welfare standards set by the local authority.
What Does the Process Look Like?
Initial Contact and Information Gathering
In Manchester, you can start by contacting Manchester City Council’s foster care team or an independent agency such as Local Authority vs Independent Fostering Agency. They will provide an information pack and a short questionnaire.
Assessment and Home Visit
The assessment covers the home environment, family dynamics, and the carer’s ability to meet a child’s needs. The assessment is carried out by a social worker, and if you’re in a partnership, both partners will be interviewed unless one is excluded by legal reason.
Training and Placement Matching
Once approved, you will receive training that covers legal responsibilities, safeguarding, and child development. The training is tailored to your living situation – for example, if you are cohabiting, the training will address the dynamics of a shared household.
For a deeper step‑by‑step guide, you can read How To Become A Foster Carer In England Step By Step Guide.
Support Structures in Place
Ongoing Supervision
Social workers will conduct regular visits to ensure the child’s safety and well‑being. The frequency depends on the child’s needs and any risk factors identified during assessment.
Peer and Professional Support
Many agencies offer peer support groups where foster carers share experiences. Manchester’s Mockingbird Constellations provides a network for carers to discuss challenges, especially those arising from cohabitation or recent divorce.
Financial and Practical Assistance
Carers receive a range of payments, including a basic allowance and additional sums for extra responsibilities. While the exact figures vary, the structure is designed to cover day‑to‑day costs and any extra expenses related to the child’s care.
Financial Considerations
According to official UK fostering guidance and local authority policies, fostering payments are divided into:
- Basic allowance – covers general living costs for the child.
- Additional payments – for extra responsibilities such as caring for a child with special needs or a longer placement.
- Transport and holiday allowances – to cover travel and family holidays.
These payments are not dependent on the carer’s marital status. For a comprehensive overview of the allowance system in England, you may consult Fostering Allowances 2025 26 Explained London South East And Rest Of England.
Getting Started in Manchester
To apply in Manchester:
- Contact the council: Visit the Manchester City Council website and locate the foster care section.
- Submit an application: Fill out the online form, providing details about your household, including any partners or ex‑spouses.
- Attend an information session: Many agencies hold free sessions to explain the process.
- Undergo assessment: A social worker will visit your home and conduct interviews.
- Receive training: Once approved, you will attend mandatory training sessions.
- Begin placement: You’ll be matched with a child whose needs align with your home’s strengths.
If you prefer working with an independent agency, you can contact providers in Salford, Stockport, or Bolton, where many agencies offer the same rigorous assessment and support framework.
Local Authority and Agency Options
Manchester City Council offers foster care services that are fully integrated with the local safeguarding network. Independent agencies provide similar services but often have slightly different training programmes and support structures. When choosing between them, consider:
- Assessment style: Local authority assessments are standardised across the council, whereas independent agencies may offer a more flexible approach.
- Support availability: Some independent agencies have dedicated support teams for carers dealing with cohabitation or recent divorce.
- Payment structures: While the basic allowance is the same, independent agencies may offer additional incentives.
For a balanced comparison, see Local Authority vs Independent Fostering Agency.
Realistic Expectations and Challenges
Fostering brings profound rewards but also realistic challenges, particularly for those navigating complex personal relationships:
- Balancing household dynamics: Co‑living with a partner can create tension when a new child enters the home. Clear communication and defined roles help mitigate conflict.
- Post‑divorce adjustments: If you are newly divorced, it may take time to establish a new routine that accommodates a foster child.
- Legal considerations: In cases of divorce settlements, ensure that any custody or financial arrangements do not conflict with fostering responsibilities.
- Emotional resilience: Carers often benefit from peer support, especially when dealing with the emotional toll of fostering after a relationship change.
- Time management: Fostering can be time‑intensive; balancing work, personal life, and fostering duties requires careful planning.
By recognising these challenges early and leveraging the support structures available, carers can create a stable and nurturing environment for the child.
FAQs
Can I foster if I am married?
Yes. Marriage does not restrict your ability to foster; the spouse is considered part of the household and will be assessed alongside you.
What if I have recently divorced?
Recent divorce is not a barrier. The assessment will consider any ongoing arrangements with the ex‑spouse, but you can still apply and become a foster carer.
Do I need to be a single person to foster?
No. Whether you are single, married, or cohabiting, you can foster as long as you meet the suitability criteria set by the local authority.
Will my partner be required to undergo assessment?
If your partner lives with you and will be involved in caring for the child, they will be assessed as part of the household. If they are not involved, they may not need to attend the assessment.
How does fostering affect my divorce settlement?
Fostering payments are independent of divorce settlements. However, you should discuss any financial or custodial arrangements with your solicitor to ensure there is no conflict with fostering responsibilities.