What are the eligibility criteria for receiving financial support as a foster carer?

Who Is Eligible for Financial Support?

To receive a fostering allowance, you need to be an approved foster carer with a fostering service such as Match Foster Care, with a child placed in your care. Once a child lives with you, your allowance is paid for every week of the placement.

Becoming a foster carer is open to many more people than you might think. You can be single, married or living with a partner, you can rent or own your home, and you can foster whatever your sexuality, ethnicity or religion. You will need to be over 21, have a spare bedroom, and have the time, patience and commitment to care for a child.

Everyone who applies goes through training and a fostering assessment. This helps us get to know you and makes sure fostering is right for you and your family. Your assessment is then presented to our fostering panel.

If you are not sure whether you are eligible, the easiest way to find out is to speak to us. We will answer your questions honestly and help you decide if fostering is right for you. Find out more on our Transparent Payments page, try our finance calculator, or get in touch with our team.