Can I foster if I’m a disabled carer?

Fostering agencies like Beacon Fostering seek carers from all backgrounds to look after children in need.

While there are common misconceptions about who can become a foster carer, people of all races, ethnicities, sexualities and marital statuses are encouraged to consider applying. People with disabilities may be wondering if they can become a foster carer, so here is all the information you need to know.

What counts as a disability?

According to the Equality Act of 2010, a person has a disability if their impairment, whether physical or mental, significantly affects their ability to carry out day to day activities on a long term basis.

Similarly, there are conditions that are still classed as a disability even if their impact is minimal, such as having HIV. If you are neurodivergent (an umbrella term for those with autism, ADHD and dyslexia, for instance), this is also considered a disability under the Act, even if you do not view yourself as such. Regardless, what matters is that you are persistent and patient, and willing to open your home to children in need.

Additional considerations and suitable placements

When assessing your fostering application, the agency or local authority will advise you on this, so that it, and you, can evaluate whether or not fostering is realistic, depending on your disability.

Furthermore, fostering agencies like Beacon Fostering offer extensive support and training to help foster carers, and specific placements (e.g. short term, respite) are recommended to those who live with a disability.

If you’re considering providing foster care in Cheshire or other areas of the North West, get in touch today to find out more.