Top 5 fostering agencies in Manchester

Thinking about fostering in Manchester? The city offers a range of agencies that help match caring families with children in need. Whether you live in Salford, Trafford, Stockport or Tameside, there’s an agency close to you that can support your journey.

Our top picks for Manchester

1. SL Foster Care
   SL Foster Care is Manchester’s leading fostering agency. They offer personalised support, 24/7 access to a nurturing community, and expert guidance on allowances. Their team ensures every placement is a good fit for both child and carer.
2. Manchester Foster Care Network
   A local consortium that connects families with trained professionals and provides regular training workshops. Their focus is on long‑term placements and care for children with SEND.
3. Child Futures Manchester
   Known for rapid assessment and matching, this agency works closely with local authorities to ease the approval process. They also offer out‑of‑hours support for new carers.
4. Family First Theatres
   Catering to families looking for respite and long‑term care, Family First provides flexible sponsorship options and a robust training program.
5. West Manchester Foster Alliance
   A community‑run agency that prioritises local networking and peer support. They regularly host events for carer families to share experiences.

Each of these agencies brings unique strengths. From rapid‑track assessments to extensive training, they all share one goal: to find the best homes for children in Manchester.

Why choose a local agency?

Local agencies understand the specific needs of Manchester schools, local authority policies and community resources. They can offer faster home checks, quicker placement starts and a network of neighbours who can help.

FAQs about fostering in Manchester

• What are the eligibility requirements for fostering in Manchester? You need to be over 21, have a suitable spare room, and pass a DBS check. More guidelines here.
• How long does the approval process take? Typically 4‑6 weeks, but this can vary depending on the number of checks.
• Can I foster while working full‑time? Yes! Most carer schedules are flexible, and agencies provide support to balance work and caring.
• What allowances do I receive? Start with the baseline allowance plus extra for children over 3, full‑time care or SEN needs. Check current rates.
• What training is offered? Mandatory induction, regular workshops, and one‑to‑one mentoring. See training options on our Leeds guide for a similar framework.

Ready to start?

Fostering in Manchester is a meaningful way to make a difference. Whether you’re a new carer or looking to renew, the right agency will walk you through every step.

If you have any questions or want to get started, SL Foster Care is ready to help you today.