There’s an urgent need for most foster parents across England, and your support could make a real difference. Older children, sibling groups, and parent-and-child placements are particularly in need of more foster parents. 

As of March 2025, there were 81,770 children looked after by local authorities in England. While the number of very young children in care has slightly decreased, the number of teenagers has grown by 17%. Many children in care are part of sibling groups, require a ‘Parent and Child’ placement, or have specific needs which create unique and vital placement needs.

This means whether you’re drawn to fostering teenagers, supporting a sibling group, or parent-and-child placements, there’s a child, or family, who could benefit from your care.

Where Foster Carers Are Needed Most

1. Older Children and Teenagers

They need foster parents who can offer:

• Stability and guidance
• Support with education and friendships
• Help navigating the transition to independence

Caring for a teenager can be rewarding, life-changing work, providing the consistency many young people need at this stage of their lives.

2. Sibling Groups

Keeping siblings together, where appropriate, is always priority. However sadly due to the shortage of foster carers and their bedroom availability, some sibling groups are separated. 

Foster carers who can welcome two or more children provide a lifeline to family continuity, helping children feel secure and supported.

Hear from Nat, who fostered a sibling group.

3. Parent-and-Child Placements

Parent and Child placements focus on supporting a parent while they care for their baby, usually over around 12 weeks. You’ll help:

• Develop parenting skills
• Strengthen the parent-child bond
• Keep families together safely when possible

There is a growing need for foster carers who can provide this specialised support. All training will be provided to ensure you feel confident undertaking this crucial role.

Why Foster Care at Any Age Makes a Difference

Whatever placement type you choose, your decision to foster will have a lasting impact. Foster carers help children:

• Build confidence and secure attachments
• Feel safe and valued in a family environment
• Navigate milestones from early development to independence.

Your home could be the stability a child needs to thrive.

Why Choose Family Fostering Partners?

At Family Fostering Partners, we provide full support to all of our foster parents, regardless of the type of fostering they wish to pursue. This includes:

• Specialist training.
• Dedicated Supervising Social Workers who provide support.
• Peer networks and community events.
• External Support from Foster Talk

FAQs: Age Groups and High-Demand Placements

Which age groups are in highest demand?

Older children, teenagers, sibling groups, and parent-and-child placements are currently most needed.

Can siblings be placed together?

Yes, keeping siblings together is a priority wherever possible.

What is a parent-and-child placement?

A short-term placement (usually 12 weeks) where a foster carer supports a parent to care safely for their baby.

Are infants still needed in foster care?

Yes, mainly for short-term placements while longer-term plans are made.

Will I receive support for specialist placements?

Absolutely. Family Fostering Partners provides training and dedicated support for all placement types.

Take the first step on your fostering journey today.

Children across all age groups need stable, caring homes, particularly teenagers, sibling groups, and families needing parent-and-child placements.Be the person who changes a child’s life. Become a foster carer with Family Fostering Partners and make a lasting difference.