Working adults, renters can become foster carers in England — UK govt

The UK government has announced that working adults and renters can become foster carers in England, dispelling previous misconceptions that one must own a home or give up their job to take in children in need of care. To qualify, prospective foster carers must be at least 18 years old (though most services require applicants to be at least 21), have the right to work in the UK, and be able to provide a spare bedroom for the child.

The application process involves submitting an application through a local council, regional recruitment hub, or independent fostering agency, followed by an assessment process that can take up to eight months. The process includes a Disclosure and Barring Service check, a social worker assessment, and a panel review. Once approved, foster carers are expected to provide support for the child's welfare and development, attend meetings, and undergo relevant training.

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