Do I need qualifications to become a foster carer?

A common misconception when it comes to fostering is individuals who believe they cannot foster as they have no qualifications. You DO NOT need any specific qualifications to foster a child or young person in the UK.

How can I foster with no qualifications?

Qualifications are not needed when it comes to fostering. It is just pivotal that our foster carers care about the welfare of children and young people and want to have a positive influence on their life by giving them a brighter future and stability in difficult times.

I have never had children; will this impact me fostering?

You do not need to have your own children in order to foster. It would be beneficial to you if you have cared for children in the past, however this is not a necessity.

If qualifications are not needed, what are the requirements to foster?

• You must have at least one spare room. Rooms can only be shared by siblings of the same sex and of a similar age, therefore if you are intending to foster more than one child, you may need more than one spare room.
• You must be over the age of 18 – though most agencies, including ourselves, look for applicants over the age of 21.
• You must have a secure home and be able to provide a safe environment for children and young people who require it.
• You must be committed to caring for the child or young person/s that you take on and have the time an energy to do so.

What skills do you look for in your foster carers?

We believe that to be a good foster carer, the following skills are beneficial…

• Enjoy spending time and caring for children/young people
• Reliable
• Responsible attitude
• Patience and tolerance
• Ability to be understanding and calm
• A sense of humour

Flexibility when it comes to time can also be important for a foster carer. Fostering can be a full-time job so we need carers who are able to give time and their full attention to the young person/s that they are caring for.

Interested in fostering? Request a call from one of our recruitment team below…

https://beaconfostering.com/request-a-callback/