Heard lots of things about fostering but not sure what to believe? Read on as we debunk some of the most common myths surrounding foster care.
Myth: Fostering is only for straight, married couples
Reality: Fostering is open to people from all walks of life, regardless of relationship status, gender, sexual orientation or age, as long as they meet the necessary criteria and can provide a safe, stable and nurturing home for a child.
Myth: You need your own home to foster
Reality: You don’t need to own your home to foster. As long as you your landlord’s permission and have a safe, suitable living space and a spare bedroom, you can foster. Plus, many local authorities allow babies under two to sleep in a cot in your room.
Myth: Foster children are all troubled or difficult
Reality: Foster children come from diverse backgrounds and experiences. While some may have faced challenges or trauma, many need temporary care due to family circumstances. Each child is an individual with their own personality, strengths, and needs.
Myth: Fostering is only for people who can’t have children of their own
Reality: Some foster carers may foster due to not having biological children, but many do it to make a positive difference. Fostering isn’t a replacement for having children, it’s a unique, rewarding way to provide care and expand a family.
Myth: You can’t have pets if you foster
Reality: Quite the opposite! Pets can comfort children and teach skills like patience and responsibility. They are assessed during the fostering process and ongoing.
Myth: Foster children will disrupt your family life
Reality: While fostering requires flexibility, it doesn’t have to disrupt family life. With the right support and preparation, children can settle well, become valued family members, and many families find fostering enriches their lives and strengthens bonds.
Myth: Fostering is too expensive
Reality: Foster carers receive allowances to cover a child’s everyday costs, plus a fee that recognises the importance of the role. Many carers are also eligible for tax relief and other benefits, making fostering a financially viable option for many people.
Myth: Once you become a foster carer, you’re on your own
Reality: Local authorities offer foster carers training, guidance, and professional support. Carers also benefit from a wider community of peers and can access social workers and other professionals for advice whenever needed.
Myth: Foster carers need to be perfect
Reality: Foster carers don’t need to be perfect. Every family has strengths and challenges, and while you won’t always have the answers, the right support and training can help you become a confident carer making a real difference in a child’s life.
Myth: You can’t work whilst you foster
Reality: There are many types of fostering to suit different lifestyles, and you can continue working as long as the child’s needs and commitments are met.
Still got questions?
Why not speak to someone who knows first-hand what it’s like to foster – our foster carers! Contact us now and we’ll put you in touch with one of our local carers who would love to chat to you about this amazing role.