who can foster

foster myths: separating fact from fiction

No matter who you are, fostering is the chance to initiate real differences to children in your local community. It needs different people too. We encourage diversity of foster carers, because diverse backgrounds, experiences and ideas is exactly what children in Pembrokeshire need.

When it comes to who can foster, we ask: can you make a difference, and do you want to?

can I foster if I work full time?

We understand foster carers all have different work commitments, and it’s our role to find a solution that works for you and the children in our care.

Fostering is a big life decision. It will change you. It needs commitment and flexibility, so if you have a full-time job this may mean you need extra support from family and close friends. Your job isn’t a barrier, but it’s something we consider when we make recommendations about what kind of foster care might suit you best.

can I be a foster carer if I live in rented accommodation?

If you feel secure where you live, then so could a child. We can figure out what works best for you depending on where you call home.

That extra room you use for storage, could be transformed into a safe haven for a foster child. A place they can call their own.

can I foster if I have children of my own?

All foster families are different, which is great! If you have children of your own, taking care of foster children means extending your family and adding more people to love and care for.

A sibling dynamic is an amazing chance for your foster children and children of your own to experience something incredible. Building a bond that could last a lifetime.

am I too old to foster?

There’s no age limit to fostering, we believe that whatever your age, you can help make a positive impact on someone’s life. 27 or 77, you will have a wealth of knowledge that a child can learn so much from. And with the support from Foster Wales Pembrokeshire, help will never be out of reach.

am I too young to foster?

Life experience is a great bonus, but being young doesn’t mean you can’t be part of the fostering family. With our network of support to guide you, you can enjoy the path ahead regardless of your age. If you want to help, we want to help you.

do couples who foster have to be married or in a civil partnership?

Being married or part of any relationship will have no bearing on your ability to change a child’s life. What these kids need is stability, love, and connection.

can I foster if I’m transgender?

Absolutely. Again, we welcome diversity because the children we care for need it. It’s your personality, your skills and your caring nature that are most important.

can I foster if I’m gay?

Your sexual orientation isn’t a factor when it comes to fostering. What matters most is your commitment to being the person who listens and cares, who offers a safe space, to a child.

can I foster if I have a dog or cat?

Household pets can prove to be very effective with some foster children to help learn responsibility, care and understanding. We will include them in your assessment, to make sure they and any future foster children will get on well together.

can I foster if I smoke?

Local Authorities have different policies around smoking (including e-cigarettes and vaping) and foster care, the most important thing is being honest. We’ll offer guidance on how to quit if you’d like to. In every case, it’s about finding the right match between your family and the children in our care.

can I foster if I’m unemployed?

Your job isn’t the definitive factor to foster care. We know that things can change quickly. Unemployment won’t stop you from being a foster carer – it’s the support, love and care you can provide that are most important.

can I foster if I don’t have a big house?

Every home is different. If yours is filled with love, security and respect, it’s as big as it needs to be.