How to Build a Successful Foster Career When Fostering in England

Fostering isn’t just a rewarding way to make a difference—it can also become a meaningful and long-term career. At Family Fostering Partners, we’ve had the privilege of supporting many people across England on their journey to becoming exceptional foster carers. But what does it really take to build a successful foster care career? Whether you’re considering fostering for the first time or looking to grow in your current role, here’s what you need to know about fostering in England.

What Makes a Foster Care Career Successful?

A successful fostering career isn’t measured by how many children you support or how long you’ve been fostering. Instead, it’s about the quality of care you provide, the relationships you build with children and young people, and your ability to grow and adapt with each experience.

Success in fostering often looks like:

• Children who feel safe, seen, and heard in your home.
• Positive relationships with professionals, and where appropriate, birth families.
• A growing confidence in your role as a foster parent.
• A desire to keep learning and improving.

Consistency, compassion, and communication are at the heart of long-term success when fostering in England.

Essential Skills Needed When Fostering in England

You don’t need formal qualifications to foster, but there are certain skills and qualities that will help you thrive:

• Empathy and patience: Children requiring foster care may have experienced trauma, and understanding their emotions without judgment is vital.
• Resilience: Not every day will be easy. Emotional strength will help you navigate challenges calmly.
• Good communication: You’ll need to communicate clearly with professionals, your fostering agency, and the children you care for.
• Adaptability: Every child is different, and your approach will need to be flexible to meet their unique needs.

CJ, a former Senior Manager, discusses why he gave up his full time career to pursue fostering as a career.

Training and Support Available When Fostering in England

When you foster with an agency like Family Fostering Partners, you’re never on your own. We’re proud to offer comprehensive training and 24/7 support to help you feel confident in your important role.

From your initial preparation course (known as “Skills to Foster”) to ongoing training in areas such as safeguarding, trauma-informed care, and therapeutic parenting, there are many opportunities to expand your knowledge.

We also offer:

• Regular support groups and peer networking.
• A dedicated Link Worker who will offer you advice, guidance and support.
• Access to specialist service Foster Talk, who provide free legal, medical and financial advice as well as access to training, discounts and savings. 
• A 24/7 on call service, so you are never alone if you have questions or queries.

Support is one of the most important factors when fostering in England, and our team are here to walk beside you throughout your fostering career.

How to Find a Good Foster Care Agency in the UK

Choosing the right agency can shape your entire fostering experience. When looking for an agency to foster with, consider the following:

• Are they local and accessible? Having a nearby team can make a big difference.
• Do they offer round-the-clock support? Emergencies don’t just happen during business hours.
• Is their training robust and ongoing? The best agencies invest in your development.
• Do you feel valued and listened to? A good agency will treat you as a professional and a partner in care

At Family Fostering Partners, we’re proud of our reputation for putting foster parents and children at the heart of everything we do. Explore our website and learn more about our values and the training we offer. You can also pop in to visit us at 22 King Street in Hereford! If you’re fostering in England and looking for a team that truly supports your career, we’d love to speak with you.

How to Learn and Grow as a Foster Carer

Growth in fostering often comes through reflection and connection. Here are a few ways to continue learning:

• Take part in workshops and events offered by your agency.
• Connect with other carers in our support groups, both in person and online, to share experiences and gain insights.
• Stay curious—read books, listen to podcasts, or attend webinars on child development and care. 
• Ask for feedback from professionals you work with. Our Link Workers undertake regular supervision and are always happy to discuss any worries or concerns. ‘Our Link Worker is like our best friend’ explains Nat, a foster parent with Family Fostering Partners.

Most importantly, remember that every child you care for teaches you something new. Your journey as a foster parent is not just about helping children—it’s also about personal growth too.

At Family Fostering Partners, we believe that fostering in England can be more than a calling—it can be a fulfilling and empowering career. If you’re ready to begin or continue that journey, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Interested in building your career as a foster carer? Get in touch with our friendly team today to find out more.