Frequently asked questions
Quick, honest answers about fostering, Special Guardianship and getting support. Can’t find what you need? Call the BFCA Lifeline or send us a message. We’re here to help at every step.
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01 · Becoming a foster carer
You usually need to be over 21, have a spare bedroom, and be able to offer a safe and nurturing home to a child in care. Exact requirements vary between councils and agencies, so the first step is a conversation.
No. Fostering services provide full training and ongoing support to help you become a confident foster carer.
It varies, but it usually takes several months to complete the assessment, training and background checks.
Children of all ages and backgrounds may need foster care. They may have been removed from their families for many different reasons, and your role is to give them a stable and loving home.
Services aim to match children with carers who can meet their needs, and you can share your preferences. Being open to different placements helps more children find the right home.
Yes. Foster carers receive a fostering allowance to cover the costs of caring for a child. The amount depends on things like the child’s age and needs, and on the fostering service.
Aged 21 to 45? See Next Generation Carers →
02 · Special Guardianship
An SGO is a legal order that gives a carer long-term parental responsibility for a child, while allowing the child to keep a connection with their birth family.
An SGO is a more permanent, legally binding arrangement. The child stays with their special guardian for the long term, while foster care is often temporary.
Yes, foster carers can apply for an SGO when it is in the child’s best interests. Talk to the child’s social worker first.
A special guardian is legally responsible for the child’s upbringing, including decisions about education, health care and day-to-day life.
Special guardians can access support services and allowances to help meet the child’s needs. What’s available varies by area, and BFCA’s community and Lifeline are open to special guardians too.
03 · When things get difficult
Open, honest communication is the first step. Try to work through issues together, and ask for mediation if you need it. BFCA offers independent mediation support.
Sometimes a change of social worker is possible. Discuss it with your fostering service or local authority.
Raise your concerns with your service and explore how support and training could improve. You can also talk to us for guidance.
You can consider mediation, or contact BFCA for independent guidance and advocacy. You don’t have to handle it alone.
Still have questions?
Call the BFCA Lifeline free on 0800 001 6230, 11am to 2pm and 6pm to 9pm, or use the online chat. No question is too small.