Who can foster?

Fostering is when someone looks after a child or young person who is unable to stay with their own (birth) family. It could be for short period of time, or more long term depending on the circumstances.

The child or young person will live in your home, so they will need their own bedroom.

Fostering information evening

We welcome applications from anyone interested in fostering regardless of your sexuality or gender, whether you’re single, married or living with a partner.

Call us on 01234 718718 to register your interest.

Who can foster

Image
Family in park

Almost anyone can become a foster carer, and we are looking for a wide range. You can be:

  • single
  • married
  • LGBTQ+
  • with or without children
  • working or not

You must:

  • be over 21 years
  • have a spare bedroom

Our foster carers reflect a wide range of circumstances, faiths and life experience. People of all backgrounds, abilities and ages are considered.

What skills are needed

Some experience in childcare would be useful, although not essential.

If you go ahead with the assessment process, you may well discover that you have plenty of skills and experience that will be really beneficial as a foster carer.

We do ask that you are able to:
 
  • Protect and care for the young person
  • Encourage them to achieve
  • Support and encourage hobbies, friendships and social skills
  • Be committed to developing new skills and knowledge
  • Support a child to have contact with family and friends
  • Have a sense of humour and be resilient

Get in touch to find out more:

 Fostering enquiry

Alternatively, phone us on 01234 718718 or email fostering@bedford.gov.uk.

Download the fostering information pack (PDF).