How To Become A Foster Carer with Match Foster Care
If you’re ready to make a difference, fostering with Match Foster Care could be one of the most rewarding decisions of your life. We make the process straightforward, transparent, and supportive from the moment you get in touch.
Working across the West Midlands, Staffordshire, Shropshire, Warwickshire, Worcestershire, and Herefordshire, our experienced team helps ordinary people achieve extraordinary things — creating safe, loving homes where children can flourish.
Why choose Match Foster Care?
We’re an independent fostering agency built on relationships, not numbers. You’ll have your own Supervising Social Worker, no online reporting required from you, round-the-clock support, and access to ongoing training. We focus on quality care, personal connection, and matching that truly works.
What makes Match different from other agencies?
Our size allows us to know every carer personally. Decisions are made quickly, communication is open, and you’ll always deal with people who genuinely understand fostering. At Match, our Supervising Social Workers have low caseloads, this enables them to be responsive and available to support you in every capacity during your fostering journey.
We treat carers as partners in a shared mission to change children’s lives. Unlike other agencies where foster carers never meet each other and are kept from doing so, at Match Foster Care you will be encouraged to meet other Match carers and hopefully make new friendships.
Which areas do you cover?
We support foster carers throughout the West Midlands and neighbouring counties, working closely with local authorities to find suitable foster placements. Wherever you’re based in these regions, you’ll receive the same high level of care and contact from our team.
How do I start the application process?
Getting started is simple. You can complete our online enquiry form or give us a call. A member of our team will talk you through the basics, answer your questions, and arrange a friendly home visit if you’re ready to take the next step.
What happens after I apply?
We’ll visit you at home to learn more about your family, lifestyle, and motivation to foster. If you decide to proceed, you’ll begin the Fostering assessment — a detailed but supportive review led by one of our social workers. You’ll also complete the Skills to Foster training course during this stage.
How long does it take to become a foster carer?
The full process usually takes four to six months, depending on your availability. Throughout this time you’ll have regular updates, guidance, and access to training so you feel prepared for your first placement.
What happens once I’m approved?
Once approved, you’ll begin receiving foster placement opportunities. Your Supervising Social Worker will help identify the right match, ensure you’re comfortable, and provide all the support you need as you welcome your first child.
Can I talk to an existing foster carer?
Yes. We can introduce you to one of our current carers so you can hear what fostering is really like. Their stories often inspire new applicants and provide a realistic picture of the rewards and responsibilities involved.
Can I transfer from another agency to Match?
Absolutely. If you’re already a foster carer and thinking about transferring, we’ll make the process simple and respectful. We’ll handle the formalities, liaise with your current agency, and ensure continuity for you and any children in placement.
What support will I receive once I join Match Foster Care?
You’ll receive 24/7 access to advice, professional supervision, free ongoing training, and invitations to carer events and peer groups. From your first day, you’ll be part of a warm community that values and celebrates everything you do.
Take The First Step Today
Becoming a foster carer doesn’t happen overnight, but every step brings you closer to changing a child’s life — and your own. With Match Foster Care, you’ll never walk that path alone. We’ll guide, train, and support you at every stage so you can make a lasting difference.
We have now come to the conclusion of out Ultimate Guide To Fostering with the last section covering the Realities Of Fostering. If you’re ready to begin, our friendly team would love to hear from you. Get in touch today for an informal chat and discover just how rewarding fostering can be.
