who can foster

foster myths: separating fact from fiction

Merthyr Tydfil may be a relatively small area, but we have a vibrant and varied mix of foster families here in our local community. When it comes to who can foster, the main question we ask is: can you make a difference, and do you want to?

You might have other questions about who can foster. In which case, keep reading to find out more.

can I foster if I work full time?

Some of our foster carers are retired, but others work full time. So, if you work, don’t think this will stop you from becoming a foster carer. In reality, it might just mean you need additional support from family and friends.

Holding down a full-time job isn’t necessarily a barrier. It’s just something that might need extra consideration. For example, part time fostering might suit you best.

You’ll also benefit from our local team of social workers and experienced professionals, who all come together to support you.

can I be a foster carer if I live in rented accommodation?

Whether you are a homeowner or you rent, the main question we ask is: do you feel secure and comfortable where you live? Because if so, a child could too.

Think about it this way. Your spare room could be used for storage, or could be empty most of the time. Or, it could be the safe space a child needs in order to grow and become the best version of themselves.

can I foster if I have children of my own?

Many of our foster carers have their own children, and the experience of having a foster sibling is uniquely wonderful. It teaches empathy, compassion and care – and these are valuable skills that last a lifetime.

Taking care of foster children means extending your family, adding more people to love and to care for.

am I too old to foster?

There is no upper age limit when it comes to fostering. Some of our foster carers find their roles add meaning and value to retirement, while others may have young children of their own, jobs, and other responsibilities that fit alongside fostering.

Age is no barrier, and whichever stage of life you are in, you’ll benefit from the same expert local support and training. We’ll provide everything you need to feel equipped for the journey ahead.

am I too young to foster?

There’s no lower age limit with fostering either. As a younger foster carer what you offer might be slightly different, but it’s equally valuable – the energy, passion and enthusiasm you have is exactly what a local child needs.

So, while life experience is a great bonus, don’t think you can’t be part of the fostering family as a younger carer. With our support network of support, you can feel confident and enjoy the path ahead regardless of your age.

do couples who foster have to be married or in a civil partnership?

You can foster if you’re single, and the length of your relationship and whether you’re married or in a civil partnership isn’t a condition to fostering. Children need stability, so the main thing to consider is whether this is something you can offer. If so, then you can foster.

can I foster if I’m transgender?

Yes you can. Your gender doesn’t have any bearing on whether you’ll make a great foster carer – it’s all about your caring and compassionate nature, your unique skills and your dedication to the journey ahead.

can I foster if I’m gay?

We cherish our LGBT+ foster carers. The decision to foster is about making a commitment to being the person who listens and cares, who offers a safe space, to a child. When it comes to being this person, your sexual orientation isn’t a factor.

can I foster if I have a dog or cat?

We recognise that pets are family too, and that’s why we include every pet in your foster carer assessment. Like any other family member, we take a look at how they might get on with any future foster children.

Pets certainly aren’t a barrier to becoming a foster carer – they can offer a different kind of love and support.

can I foster if I smoke?

You can still foster if you smoke, it may just mean that some children match better with you than others. We’ll work with you to find the best way forward.

If quitting smoking is something you want to achieve, we can also offer support and guidance to help you.

can I foster if I’m unemployed?

Being in work isn’t a condition to become a foster carer. At the end of the day, we know everyone has ups and downs with employment. Being a great foster parent is all about being available to offer support, guidance and love every day – this is what matters. So, if you are currently out of work, we welcome your foster carer application. We’ll work with you to make sure the timing is right, and figure out what’s best for your unique circumstances.

can I foster if I don’t have a big house?

All you need to foster a child is a spare room and an open heart. Whether your home is large or small – a flat or somewhere more roomy – you have what’s needed to make a difference.

After all, every foster home is different, and that’s how it should be.