Benefits of fostering with Shropshire Fostering
Council‑backed.
Not‑for‑profit.
For children and carers.
Shropshire Fostering is Shropshire Council’s not‑for‑profit fostering service. We don’t spend money on shareholders, national offices or TV campaigns - everything is ploughed back into helping children who need it the most and the carers who look after them.
That means more support for you, more stability for children, and a service that always puts Shropshire families first.
Financial support that reflects your commitment
Fostering is life‑changing - and we make sure you’re supported to do it well.
Up to £45,000 per year, per child
Our payments and allowances recognise the time, care and emotional energy you invest.
As a foster carer with us, you’d also receive clarity on your skills progression. Each stage gives you more money. Furthermore, quarterly Exceptional Skills bonuses are available.
Guaranteed payments between placements
You’ll never be left without financial support while waiting for your next arrangement.
Additional allowances
We provide support for birthdays, holidays, school essentials and more, so every child can enjoy the same opportunities as their peers.
Transparent, fair and reliable
As a council service, our payments are consistent and predictable; no hidden conditions, no profit‑driven decisions.
Local support from people who know you
One of the biggest advantages of fostering with your local authority is the closeness of the support.
You’ll receive:
- A dedicated supervising social worker
- A 24/7 advice line for urgent support
- Local training, delivered by experienced professionals
- Regular support groups
- Social events like BBQs and our summer party
- Access to specialist services (therapeutic support, education support, SEND expertise)
- A local team that knows your area, your family and your strengths
Our carers often tell us they feel part of a family - not just a number.
Training that builds confidence and skills
You’ll be offered a comprehensive training programme designed to prepare you for every stage of fostering.
You’ll have access to:
- Pre‑approval training
- Ongoing development workshops
- Specialist courses (trauma, attachment, therapeutic parenting)
- Peer‑to‑peer learning with other Shropshire carers
- Opportunities to grow into specialist roles if you choose
We invest in you because you’re investing in our children.
Already fostering?
Transferring to us is simple.
If you’re currently fostering with an independent agency or another local authority, transferring to Shropshire Fostering is straightforward - and we’ll guide you through every step.
Why carers transfer to us
- To foster local children, not children placed from far away
- To join a not‑for‑profit service where support comes first
- To benefit from stronger local training and community networks
- To feel part of a team that values their experience
What the transfer process looks like
- A friendly conversation to understand your situation
- A clear, transparent transfer pathway
- Continuity of support for any child already in your care
- A warm welcome into our fostering community
Many carers tell us they wish they’d transferred sooner.
Why our foster carers choose us...
“We have felt well supported throughout the assessment process by our assessing social worker and our family worker. It has been really interesting and valuable to reflect on our life experiences and to focus on the skills we each can bring to fostering. The Skills to foster training gave us an insight into the impact of experiences that children in foster care may have had and how to support them. It also explained what the expectations of us as carers are. It has also been lovely to connect with other carers as part of the process and to hear about their fostering experiences.”
Matt & Kathryn
“We found the webinar very helpful. It was great to get an overview of the different ways people can foster as well as to have some myths dispelled and the opportunity to ask questions. It gave us the confidence to know that, were we to be successful in becoming fosterers we would be well-supported and that it would work well for our family. Everyone involved in the call was supportive, knowledgeable, and professional.”
Charlotte and Tom
“I have been so impressed by the fostering application process with Shropshire.
From the beginning, I have felt incredibly supported and valued by their affirmation of the skills and gifts I have to offer. But I have also appreciated their honesty about the challenges - I can see that they have wanted to make sure I understand what I am committing to so that future fostering is built on strong foundations. Throughout, I have been impressed at the level of communication between social workers and members of the team, all with the aim of ensuring that children and young people are matched well with carers - giving everyone a strong chance of success. I'm looking forward to the ongoing relationship with Shropshire - and am really grateful for what is a very involved but affirming process.”
Gary
Ready to explore fostering with us?
Whether you’re new to fostering or thinking about transferring, we’re here to help you take the next step.