Fostering Jobs: Career Switches You Didn’t Know Were Possible

We all find ourselves at a crossroads in our careers at some point in life, and there’s certainly no shame in admitting that you could do with a change. Exploring new opportunities and ways of working allows you to mentally and emotionally reset so you feel refreshed. If you find that you want to do something that is more meaningful, and perhaps more purposeful, we are always right here for you. 

You can ask an expert from our team anything you want to know about the thousands of foster care career opportunities available across the UK, but that’s only the beginning. Speak to a parent about the fostering jobs they have had over the years and they will tell you just how rewarding the process has been.

With this in mind, we’re going to answer some of the most commonly asked questions we hear from people just like you who are considering a career switch. 

Can Fostering Become a Career?

Absolutely! Not only do you receive weekly payments for being a foster parent, but you will also find that many service providers offer additional payments throughout the year. These are highly localised and tend to be assessed based on the individual needs of the child you are caring for. The idea is to make sure that anyone, regardless of their current circumstances or finances, is suitably supported when they wish to make a difference. 

Switching careers to help raise a young person through one of the many fostering jobs in the UK can also be highly rewarding. Many foster parents cite the feeling of making a difference as the primary reason they have remained in their jobs for so long. Many also compare it very favorably to a more traditional career because they feel they are able to enjoy the process so much more. 

What Are Fostering Jobs Really Like?

Although many of us have had jobs where we find ourselves waiting for Friday or watching the clock, fostering jobs are simply never like that. They are immersive, creative, exciting, and interesting all at the same time. And if you worry that this type of role may take a little getting used to, please rest assured that there is plenty of help for foster parents readily available. 

In our experience, here’s what makes foster care career opportunities different from everything else you may have tried so far: 

• The rewarding feeling of helping a young person settle in and achieve their full potential is unlike anything else 
• Making a family by sharing experiences and lending your own knowledge can make you feel truly satisfied 
• Knowing that you don’t have to battle a 9-5 and can instead immerse yourself in something you love is very rewarding 
• No two days are ever the same and there is always something new you can try and something exciting you can learn 

Fostering jobs are the perfect fit for anyone who wants to love what they do because they can go to bed every night knowing they have made a difference.

Who is Suited to a Fostering Career?

In principle, anyone with a kind heart and a loving way about them is well suited to any of the fostering jobs you will find across the UK. Teachers, nurses, carers, and social workers all frequently become foster parents and use their skills to work with young people. However, you don’t have to be from one of these professions to thrive as a foster parent. 

Some make the switch from corporate or office-based jobs simply because they need a change. They want to do something they are passionate about after too many years enduring a 9-5, and they find that fostering is more rewarding than anything else. Provided you are calm, kind, and caring, you will be suited to one of the many foster care career opportunities you will find advertised online. 

Can You Still Have Another Job?

Yes, HMRC recognises the financial support for foster parents you will receive as tax-exempt self-employed income. This means that you can work full-time or part-time alongside any of the fostering jobs you may wish to apply for. Alternatively, you can dedicate yourself solely to fostering if you so wish. 

You will receive a 100% tax exemption that covers the first £19,360 of the foster parent income you earn, additionally, you receive a tax relief each week of £415 per child (£495 if they are 11 or older). If you would like to learn more about how you may need to adjust your household budget to align with your change of career, we can help provide the latest foster parent pay information.

When Should You Look For Fostering Jobs?

As soon as you feel ready to embark on an exciting, rewarding career that allows you to work with a young person and help them thrive. Fostering jobs are open to anyone suitable, regardless of age, location, or background, making them some of the most accessible and welcoming positions anywhere in the UK. If you are unsure about how to start the process, we are always right here when you need us. 

Alongside our comprehensive list of resources, you may find it helpful to speak to a foster parent in your local area. Asking them how their day typically unfolds and what they like most about their role will give you a much clearer insight into what you can expect. Taking time to reflect on what you hear will ensure you come to the right decision when it comes to leaving your current role and exploring the exciting world of foster care career opportunities in the UK. 

We Are Here to Help  

At Family Fostering Partners, we see our role as much more than simply sharing information, we’re here to stand beside you as you make a lasting impact on the lives of children and young people who need your care. That’s why we aim to be your first port of call, every step of the way.

Fostering isn’t just about changing lives, it’s also a secure and rewarding career. From connecting you with training and peer support to being a listening ear when you need it most, we’re here to make sure you’re never in it alone. It’s the least we can do for those willing to give so much.

Ready to make a real difference? Explore fostering career opportunities with us.