One of the most common questions fostering providers are asked about becoming foster carer is: “Do I need a spare room to foster?” The short answer is yes. Having a spare bedroom is a requirement for fostering. 

Why do I need a spare room to foster?

Every child deserves a space where they can feel secure and have privacy. For many children requiring foster care, life has been unpredictable and sometimes unsettling. Having a space of their own helps them settle, feel valued, and start building a sense of belonging. It’s not just about having four walls and a bed, it’s about providing a personal sanctuary where they can play, relax, and feel at home.

Can foster children share a bedroom?

Looked after children cannot share a bedroom with your own birth children or other foster children that they are not related too. In some circumstances, it may be suitable for them to share a bedroom with their siblings. 

Do I need a spare room if I want to foster a baby?

Babies sometimes sleep in a cot in their foster carers’ bedroom for the first few months. While this can happen initially, a spare room is still required. As the baby grows, they will need their own space. Having a room ready ensures you can meet a baby’s needs as they develop and that you comply with fostering regulations designed to protect their well-being.

How big does the room need to be?

There isn’t a strict legal measurement for the size of a foster child’s bedroom, but it does need to be suitable for their age and needs. The room should comfortably fit a bed, storage for their clothes and belongings, and allow them some space to move around, play or study. If you are unsure if your spare room will be big enough, a fostering provider will be able to offer advice.

I have a spare room, how do I start fostering?

Whether you’re fostering a teenager, a toddler, or a baby, having a dedicated bedroom is a vital part of providing quality care. If you’re thinking about fostering and have a spare room, you’ve already taken the first step toward changing a child’s life. Don’t hesitate! Contact us today! At Family Fostering Partners, our friendly team are always on hand to guide you through the fostering process and answer all your questions about becoming a foster carer.