Frequently Asked Questions

What If I am single or a single parent?

All types of people are foster carers including married or unmarried couples and single men and women. We have many successful single foster carers in Rotherham. What is important to make things work as a single carer is that you have a supportive and secure support network to call upon.

What If I am retired?

There are no official upper age limits. As long as you are reasonably fit and active you can foster. All prospective foster carers have a medical as part of their assessment.

What If I have my own children?

Your own children are included in the approval process. It is very important that they are supportive of your application to become a fostering family.

What If I am gay / lesbian?

Rotherham Borough Council is committed to equality of opportunity and therefore interested in the skills and ability you have to offer a child in need, not your sexuality.

What If I own or rent a small house?

It is important that you have a spare bedroom and can offer a safe, secure home. We may have to talk to your landlord if renting.

What If I am disabled and / or have a health problem?

Everyone who applies to foster will need a medical as part of the assessment process to ensure you have the ability to care for a child. If you are disabled or have a medical condition, our Medical Adviser will consider the factors and make recommendations on your suitability.

What If I have a criminal conviction?

Criminal convictions do not necessarily bar you from fostering. Much depends on the seriousness of the offence, how long ago the crime was committed and how you have lived your life since. People with convictions for violent or sexual offences against children cannot foster.

What If I work full time?

Many parents work full time and manage child care with support of partners. It is important that you or your partner can be the main carer for our looked after children. If you can work flexibly and co ordinate attending the numerous looked after children's meetings etc, then working and fostering could be manageable.

It is more difficult for a single carer to work full time and be the main carer for a fostered child as well. It is inappropriate for these children to be cared for by several carers. They need consistency and continuity. If you can be there for a looked after child and manage your work schedule as well, then this would be considered as part of your assessment.

What If I do not live in Rotherham?

Provided that you live near to Rotherham there should not be a problem. If you are considering caring for a child on a long term basis, distance is less of an issue.

What else will be provided?

You will be provided with any equipment needed for children you are fostering, e.g. bedroom furniture, bedding, baby equipment.

Will I get support?

Yes, you will receive support from the Fostering Supervising Social Workers, the child's Social Worker, other foster carers and local support groups.

Will I receive training?

Yes, you will receive initial training before you are approved, induction training during your 1st year as well as ongoing development training throughout your fostering career.

Why foster for Rotherham?

• The children are Rotherham children who want to stay in or near to their hometown
• We are an experienced and friendly group of staff who will take time to talk and listen to you
• We run preparation groups regularly throughout the year, so you should not have to wait too long
• We have experienced Social Workers assisted by experienced foster carers - they will tell you what fostering is really about
• We have support groups for foster carers running in various parts of Rotherham, run by foster carers with assistance from fostering supervising workers
• We have a Fostering Forum - a discussion forum for foster carers & workers to come together to talk about fostering issues
• We provide a comprehensive training programme covering everything you need to know, from first aid to stress management
• You can get a qualification in caring for children
• We have a website to keep you up to date with developments
• We provide essential items of furniture and bedding for foster children
• You will have free membership of the Fostering Network which publishes magazines and leaflets
• You will receive support from a fostering social worker allocated to you - this is separate from the social worker for any child placed with you
• Rotherham Foster Care Association provide a support group, run by foster carers for foster carers
• We have a strong, supportive fostering community
• We have a buddying/mentoring scheme (where new carers receive support from an experienced foster carer)
• There is 24-hour support (7 days per week) provided by the fostering service & wider Children & Young People's Services

Fostering - make a call and be the difference to our most vulnerable children in Rotherham