who can foster

foster myths: separating fact from fiction

Here at Foster Wales Ceredigion, we believe experience, knowledge and ability are more important than anything else. All the personal characteristics that make you unique are things we celebrate – not barriers to fostering.

Our network within the local community are always on-hand to provide support and training, whenever you need it. Whether it’s a teacher, social worker, other carers or family and friends, we’re dedicated to sharing experience and knowledge.

can I foster if I work full time?

We have carers with all kinds of work commitments, whether part or full time, and we will agree placements that are best suited to the time and commitment you can offer.

Having a flexible work schedule is a necessary requirement, so a busy career may mean some additional thought and support from family and friends, potentially offering short breaks on weekends rather than long-term or therapeutic placements.

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

We ask that you can provide a stable home for a child where they will feel secure. This includes homes that are both owned or rented. Ultimately, if you feel happy and secure where you live, then a foster child could too.

can I foster if I have children of my own?

Living with other children can also be a valuable experience for foster kids. Sharing a home with others their age can help them form friendships, learn to care for others and to share, as well as how to work as a team.

Equally, having a family and experience of raising children is not an essential requirement to becoming a foster parent. Adults without children are also able to foster in Ceredigion and we’ll be on hand for any training or support you may require.

am I too old to foster?

There is no formal upper age limit on fostering. Whether you’re aged 25 or 65, if you would like to foster a child in Ceredigion, you will be considered.

am I too young to foster?

There is no formal lower age limit on fostering and although life experience is a great bonus, it is not a necessity. All of our foster carers are offered the same level of support and training.

However, typically, our carers are aged 21 and over, and have the ability to provide a child with a stable and reliable support system.

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

Your marital status has no influence on your ability to care for a child, therefore it is not a deciding factor when it comes to foster applications. We simply ask whether you can provide a stable environment to help raise a  child.

So, whether you’re married, single, dating, divorced or widowed, you can become a foster carer in Ceredigion.

can I foster if I’m transgender?

Yes, you can. Sex or gender have no influence on your ability to raise a child, so, however you identify, your application will be considered.

can I foster if I’m gay?

Yes, you can. Your sexual orientation has no influence on your ability to raise a child, so all LGBTQ+ people are encouraged to apply.

can I foster if I have a dog or cat?

Yes, you can. Growing up around pets can be a rewarding experience for a child, teaching them to love and care for another being.

Because some children have allergies or fears of some animals, your pets will always be included in your assessment to ensure any children placed in your care are comfortable.

can I foster if I smoke?

While all Local Authorities have different policies around smoking (including e- cigarettes and vaping), in Ceredigion you will not be able to foster children under 5 if you smoke. The most important thing is being honest from the start. We’ll offer guidance on how to quit if you’d like to. In every case, it’s  about finding the right match between your family and the children in our care.

can I foster if I’m unemployed?

Yes, you can. Whether employed, self-employed or unemployed, your job status won’t stop you from becoming a foster carer assuming you can provide a safe, stable and loving home. When you apply, we’ll work together to make sure the timing is right for you.

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

Yes, you can. The size of your home doesn't have a bearing on your application to become a foster parent in Ceredigion, and we currently have carers living in a variety of properties – from flats to detached homes.

To become a foster parent, you just need a spare room where a child can feel at home.