Do I Need to Make Changes to my House Ahead of Fostering in England?

When researching how to become a foster parent, there are two main factors to turn attention to. Yourself, and your home. Should you already be going through approval by the foster panel, or you’re clear on your eligibility, you will need to turn attention to your home. It’s natural to feel anxieties at this time, fostering is a meaningful journey, but it comes with significant responsibility. 

To ease any worries and make this transition smoother, it’s helpful to turn your attention to preparing your home. Setting up a safe, welcoming space can not only help a child feel secure but also help you feel organised and ready for this new role. With a few thoughtful adjustments, you can create an environment that’s both comforting and supportive.

Below, we’ll walk you through the essential home requirements for fostering in England, from child safety to creating a warm atmosphere, so you feel confident and prepared to welcome a foster child.

Understanding the Home Requirements for Fostering in England

When fostering in England you need to meet a certain number of requirements yourself, namely: 

• • Age Requirement: You must be at least 21 years old to become a foster parent.

• • Health and Fitness: You should be in generally good health, both physically and mentally, to ensure you can meet the demands of caring for a child.

• • Safety Checks: You’ll need to undergo background checks, including a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check, to ensure a safe environment for the child.

Once these personal requirements have been met, it’s time to turn your attention to assessing your home. As the safe place for the vulnerable child or young person placed in your care, your home needs to provide both security and comfort. Creating a welcoming environment doesn’t necessarily mean a full renovation, but some adjustments can make a big difference. Here’s what to consider when preparing your home for fostering. 

Bedroom

When fostering in England, agencies require you to have a separate, dedicated bedroom for your foster child. This space should be comfortable and feel like their own, with essential furnishings like a bed, dresser, and closet. If you have a guest room or spare space, think about how it can be adapted to suit the needs of a child.

Child Proofing and Safety

For younger foster children, certain childproofing measures are crucial. Consider safety gates for stairs, securing cabinets, and covering sharp furniture edges. Regardless of age, ensure that windows and doors are safely secured and that any hazardous items (like cleaning supplies or tools) are stored out of reach.

Outdoor Areas

If your home has a garden, yard, or any outdoor space, it should be a safe and secure environment. Installing fencing or checking existing fencing can add an extra layer of security. Also, ensure that any sharp tools or hazardous outdoor equipment are stored away to create a worry-free play area.

Atmosphere

Finally, small touches can make a big difference in helping a foster child feel welcome. Neutral or cheerful decor, cosy bedding, soft lighting, and a few inviting personal touches can help create an atmosphere that feels like home.

Type of Home

Flat, house, bungalow, terraced—if it’s a dwelling that offers a safe, stable, and comfortable environment, you can become a foster parent. The key is not the type of building but rather creating a nurturing, child-friendly space that meets basic safety and privacy standards. Whether you’re in a bustling city flat or a cosy suburban home, fostering in England is possible as long as your living space can support a child’s needs.

All the Essentials

Having some of the basics already in your home for the arrival of your foster child can make a world of difference. Depending on the type of fostering you are interested in, referrals can come in at short notice. A child may arrive within only a few hours of receiving a call, so being prepared can make a difference. Here’s a suggested list of essentials you might want to have on hand:

• • Basic toiletries such as toothbrushes, soap, shampoo, and sanitary products

• • Fresh bedding and towels

• • Simple clothing items like underwear, pyjamas, a dressing gown, and slippers in neutral colours

• • A selection of basic freezer foods (keeping allergies and dietary needs in mind). These can serve as a quick solution until you can shop for fresh, healthy options.

Home Compatible? How to Become a Foster Parent

If you’re not currently going through the process, but would like to learn how to become a foster parent click here. Alternatively, our experienced team are here to guide you through any additional questions, whether they relate to personal requirements or preparing your home for fostering.

Fostering can be an incredibly rewarding journey, offering a safe and stable environment to a child in need. With a few thoughtful preparations, both in your own readiness and in your home, you can feel more confident and equipped for this new role. Every step you take to prepare not only eases your transition but also helps create a nurturing, welcoming space that makes a real difference to the child in your care.