Recruiting foster carers in the United Kingdom remains a persistent challenge. Despite widespread media coverage and government pledges, the numbers of new carers continue to lag behind demand. Understanding the root causes—from public perception to practical barriers—can help local authorities, agencies and communities devise more effective strategies.
What fostering is and who it helps
Fostering is a form of temporary care where a child or young person is placed in a stable, supportive home outside of their family environment. The aim is to give the child a nurturing environment while the system works to secure a permanent solution—often reunification with a parent, adoption, or a long‑term placement.
Fostering benefits a wide spectrum of children: those who have experienced trauma, who have chronic health conditions, or who simply need a break from a difficult home life. It also supports families in crisis, providing respite for parents or caregivers who are overwhelmed.
Benefits and responsibilities of foster carers
For carers, fostering offers personal fulfilment, community recognition and a sense of purpose. It can also strengthen family bonds and provide a positive influence on a child’s development.
Alongside these benefits, carers bear significant responsibilities. They must create a safe, stable environment, maintain regular communication with social workers, and adhere to safeguarding protocols. They are expected to support the child’s education, health needs and emotional well‑being, often juggling these duties with their own family or work commitments.
Eligibility and assessment process
Eligibility criteria are set by the Department for Education and are interpreted by local authorities. Generally, applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years old (with a minimum of 16 for certain placements)
- Live in a suitable home that meets safety and space requirements
- Have a clean criminal record and pass thorough background checks
- Be able to provide a stable, nurturing environment
- Show willingness to undergo training and ongoing supervision
The assessment process is structured and multi‑staged. It begins with an initial application, followed by a home visit, a detailed interview, and a risk assessment. Applicants may be asked to attend a pre‑placement training course and, once accepted, will receive regular support visits from a social worker.
Support, training and supervision provided
According to official UK fostering guidance, new carers receive a comprehensive training programme. This covers safeguarding, child development, health and safety, and the legal responsibilities of fostering. Training is delivered through a combination of online modules, face‑to‑face workshops and mentoring by experienced carers.
Supervision is a continuous process. Social workers conduct regular home visits, offering feedback, support and practical advice. Carers are encouraged to join peer support groups and can access specialist services for particular needs, such as therapeutic fostering for children with trauma histories.
Allowances and payment structure explanation
Foster carers are entitled to a range of financial supports. The payment structure is tiered and depends on the child’s age, special needs and the type of placement. According to official UK fostering guidance and local authority policies, carers receive:
- Basic allowance for the child’s living expenses
- Additional payments for extra costs such as travel, clothing and medical supplies
- Specialist allowances for children with complex needs or health conditions
- Holiday and mileage reimbursements for travel to and from the child’s school or appointments
These payments are reviewed annually and adjusted to reflect changes in cost of living or the child’s circumstances. Carers are also eligible for tax relief on certain care expenses, and can claim universal credit adjustments when they meet the necessary criteria.
How to apply for fostering in Manchester
Manchester’s local authority, Manchester City Council, offers a clear application pathway. The first step is to complete an online application form, which can be found on the council’s website. Applicants should gather supporting documents such as proof of identity, tenancy agreement, and recent medical and financial statements.
After the initial application, a social worker will schedule a home visit to assess suitability and safety. If the assessment is positive, the applicant will be invited to attend a mandatory training course. Upon successful completion, the carer will be placed on the local fostering register and can begin placements.
For those wishing to explore options outside the council, independent fostering agencies such as Local Authority vs Independent Fostering Agency and IFA Contracts and Allowances provide additional pathways and may offer more flexible placement types.
Local fostering context and agencies including Salford, Bolton, Stockport
Manchester sits at the heart of a vibrant fostering community that extends into neighbouring Salford, Bolton and Stockport. Each area has its own set of agencies:
- Salford: The Fostering Allowances 2025‑26 Explained guide is widely used by local agencies to explain financial support.
- Bolton: Bolton’s fostering services are known for their strong emphasis on therapeutic support, drawing on the principles outlined in Therapeutic Fostering and Pace Skills.
- Stockport: Stockport fosters a collaborative approach with local schools and health services, ensuring that children receive a holistic support network.
Independent agencies in these areas often partner with local authorities to fill gaps, especially in high‑need sectors such as unaccompanied asylum‑seeking children, where specialised training is required.
Common challenges and realistic expectations
Despite the noble intentions behind fostering, several obstacles hinder recruitment:
- Misconceptions: Many potential carers fear that fostering will be overly demanding or that they will be held to unrealistic standards. In reality, the support structure is designed to balance responsibilities with personal life.
- Financial uncertainty: While allowances are provided, the amounts vary and may not fully cover all costs. Carers often need to budget carefully and seek additional support where possible.
- Time commitment: The training and supervision process can be time‑intensive, especially for those juggling full‑time employment.
- Emotional strain: Working with children who have complex histories can lead to emotional fatigue. Carers are encouraged to utilise respite services and peer support groups to manage stress.
- Administrative hurdles: The paperwork involved in the application, assessment and ongoing reporting can be daunting, particularly for first‑time carers.
Realistic expectations help mitigate disappointment. Carers should view fostering as a partnership with the local authority, supported by a network of professionals and volunteers. By acknowledging the challenges upfront, prospective carers can prepare mentally and logistically, increasing the likelihood of a successful placement.
FAQs
What are the main reasons fostering recruitment campaigns fail?
Campaigns often fail due to a mismatch between public expectations and the realities of fostering, limited outreach to diverse communities, and insufficient support for new carers during the initial stages.
Can single people foster children in Manchester?
Yes, single individuals can foster, provided they meet the eligibility criteria and can demonstrate a suitable environment and support network.
Are there specific training requirements for fostering children with special needs?
Training is tailored to the child’s needs. Carers may attend additional modules covering health, behaviour or educational support, depending on the child’s assessment profile.
What support is available for carers dealing with emotional stress?
Carers can access peer support groups, counselling services, and respite care. Local authorities often provide links to professional mental health resources.
How does the allowance system differ for children over 18?
Allowances for adults in care are structured differently, often focusing on education, employment and independent living skills, but the principles of basic support remain consistent.