Who can Foster?

There’s no such thing as an “ideal” foster carer

At Shropshire Fostering, we know children thrive in homes filled with patience, stability and love - and those qualities come from people of all ages, backgrounds and lifestyles. There is no single type of foster carer. What matters most is your ability to offer a safe, nurturing home to a child who needs one.

If you’re over 21 and have a spare bedroom (unless fostering babies), you could foster with us.

Enquire now

Attend webinar

Eligibility

What you do need

You don’t need special qualifications or a particular family setup. You simply need:

To be 21 or over
A spare bedroom
A stable home environment (renting or owning is fine)
Enough time and emotional space to care for a child
A willingness to work as part of a professional team
Patience, resilience and a sense of humour

We welcome carers from all backgrounds; single people, couples, same‑sex couples, families with children, empty nesters, working professionals and retirees.

Eligibility

What you don't need

Many people rule themselves out unnecessarily. Let’s clear up the most common misconceptions.

Myth 1

“I can’t foster because I rent my home.”

You absolutely can. Renting is not a barrier.

Myth 2

“I work full-time, so fostering isn’t possible.”

Many carers work. The type of fostering you choose can fit around your lifestyle.

Myth 3

“I’m single - don’t you need to be a couple?”

Single carers make brilliant foster carers. Your relationship status doesn’t matter.

Myth 4

“I’m too old to foster.”

There’s no upper age limit. What matters is your health, energy and commitment.

Myth 5

“My background isn’t ‘perfect’.”

We don’t expect perfection. We expect honesty, warmth and a willingness to learn.

Myth 6

“I don’t have children of my own.”

That’s absolutely fine. Many of our carers don’t.

Real carers. Real stories...

A solo parent in Shrewsbury

After raising her own children, Sarah wanted to give back locally. She now fosters teenagers and says the support from the Shropshire team “makes me feel like I’m never doing this alone”.

A same‑sex couple in Oswestry

Mark and Daniel foster siblings, keeping them together after years of uncertainty.

“We wanted to make a difference close to home. Shropshire Fostering welcomed us with open arms.”

A retired couple in Ludlow

With grown-up children, Helen and David now offer long-term care.

“It’s the most rewarding thing we’ve ever done.”

A young professional in Telford

Working part-time, Priya provides respite care.

“It fits around my job, and I love being part of a child’s wider support network.”

You might be more ready than you think

If you have room in your home and heart, fostering could be the most meaningful step you ever take. We’ll guide and support you through every stage, from your initial enquiry to welcoming a child into your home.

Enquire about fostering

Attend a fostering webinar