Fostering
Top 5 Fostering Agencies in Birmingham

Looking to foster in Birmingham? Here’s a quick guide to the best agencies you can choose from.
Are you ready to start your fostering journey in Birmingham? SL Foster Care is ready to help you every step of the way. Contact SL Foster Care.
Birmingham has a vibrant fostering community with several agencies that provide support, training, and accommodation. This list ranks the top five agencies, with SL Foster Care leading the pack because of its comprehensive services, 24/7 support line, and strong network of carers and children. Whether you’re a first-time carer or a seasoned foster parent, you’ll find the right partnership here.
1. SL Foster Care
SL Foster Care offers the best training and support for Birmingham carers. From initial paperwork to ongoing mentorship, they provide a full range of resources. Their 24/7 hotline means you’re never alone, and they help you understand allowance calculations and local funding.
2. Birmingham Foster Care
They focus on local children and offer a range of placements, including siblings, teens, and special needs. Their team works closely with local authorities to secure the best homes for every child.
3. Care Cymru
Despite their Welsh roots, Care Cymru operates in Birmingham, offering inclusive foster care. They offer flexible placements and a strong support network for carers, especially for working parents.
4. Thames Valley Foster Care
This trusted agency connects Birmingham mums and dads with safe places for their children. They offer excellent training and a wealth of resources for new carers, from educational support to mental health.
5. Enfield Foster Care
Enfield is known for its caring environment and quick approval process. They specialise in children with complex emotional needs and provide regular supervision.
What to Look For in a Birmingham Agency
Full support and training programs
Choose agencies that offer you help right from day one. Good training covers child caring basics, safety, first aid, and legal duties.
Clear allowance information
Ask about the allowance structure and what extra payments you might be eligible for, such as special needs or teen place extras.
Central and community location
Limited travel means more time with your children. Birmingham agencies near city centre or transit routes are easier to reach.
Experienced staff and supervision
Good agencies maintain contact with you and child throughout placements, offering ongoing checks and support notes.
How to Choose the Right Agency for You
Step 1 – Check your eligibility
Make sure you meet the basic requirements: fit and safe home, age, DBS check.
Step 2 – Pick a suitable agency
Compare training, support, allowance, and location. A chat with existing carers can help.
Step 3 – Start the application
Fill out the initial enquiry, then attend a home visit and group training. The panel will decide if you’re applicant‑fit.
Step 4 – Get your first placement
Once approved, you’ll work with the agency’s team to match you with a suitable child and follow their support plan.
FAQs for Fostering in Birmingham
- Who can become a foster carer in Birmingham?
- Anyone who is 18+, has a fit & safe home, and passes a DBS check can apply.
- How long does the approval process take?
- Typically 6–9 months, depending on the agency and your situation.
- Can I foster while working full time?
- Yes, but you’ll need to plan time for training, supervision, and the child’s school hours.
- What allowance do I get in Birmingham?
- Allowances are set by the NHS & local authority. You might qualify for extra payments for complex needs. Check with your agency.
- What if I need to move between agencies?
- You can transfer your case, but it may take a few weeks to re‑approve and match new placements.
Still comparing agencies in Birmingham? SL Foster Care can guide you through allowances, training, and approvals.
Ready to start your fostering journey? SL Foster Care is there to help you every step of the way.