FAQs

What would you say to someone interested in fostering?

'I would say to someone interested in being a foster carer….Go For It! It will be one of the best things you could do in your life. 

Find out as much information about fostering from your local authority and go along to any events they may be running to learn more. Taking that first step to enquire and learn is a big move but once you have reached out there is no looking back and you would wish you had started sooner.

Go along to an open event or talk to children’s services - you are not signing up or committing from a first meeting or discussion. You will learn more and if this is something of interest to you, you will be surprised just what you can do once you choose to become a foster carer.  Having that first meeting was the best step we took.'

What would you say to someone interested in fostering?

'I would say to someone interested in being a foster carer….Go For It! It will be one of the best things you could do in your life. 

Find out as much information about fostering from your local authority and go along to any events they may be running to learn more. Taking that first step to enquire and learn is a big move but once you have reached out there is no looking back and you would wish you had started sooner.

I'm single. Can I be a foster carer?

Yes. You can be a carer whether you are single, married, divorced or living with a partner.

I'm retired. Can I be a foster carer?

Yes. Providing you are fit and healthy for the task, you can.

Go along to an open event or talk to children’s services - you are not signing up or committing from a first meeting or discussion. You will learn more and if this is something of interest to you, you will be surprised just what you can do once you choose to become a foster carer.  Having that first meeting was the best step we took.'

Will I get any support and advice if I choose to foster?

Yes. You'll receive comprehensive training and 24/7 support from professional social workers. You’ll also be invited to social events and to join local support groups where you can share experiences with other foster carers.

Will fostering suit me?

Read our fostering myth buster and types of fostering pages to find out if fostering is for you.

Who can foster?

Regardless of age, culture, background, sexual orientation, whether you are a home-owner or tenant, if you are at least 21 with some life experience, have a spare room, live within twenty miles of the borough and have the time and energy to look after a child, you could foster. Foster carers are as diverse as the children they look after. What matters most, is that you’re the right family or person for our children. 

What types of fostering are there?

There are a number of different fostering options that involve children of different ages and with different needs. They range from emergency care, weekend care, to supporting a young person until they’re ready to be independent. Read about the different types of fostering.

Can I continue working?

Yes. Particularly if your working hours are flexible and/or you have additional support at home. You may need to be available during some school hours and holidays, and you’ll have to attend some training courses and meetings.

How close to Wokingham do I need to live?

We accept applications from people who live anywhere up to 20 miles away from Wokingham.

I don't have children. Can I be a Foster Carer

Yes. We welcome applications from single people and couples who don’t have children, as well as those who do.

I live in rented accommodation. Can I be a Foster Carer

Yes. As long as there is a spare room for the foster child, it doesn't matter if you rent or own your home.

Are Foster Carers paid?

Yes. We offer our foster carers generous financial allowances. The financial package consists of 2 parts:

• Carer's fee, (which increases, the more training you do), plus
• Child allowance, also paid to the carer to cover all the expenses in caring for the child
• Council tax exemption