Foster carers play a vital role in the lives of vulnerable children. They are people from all walks of life who open their homes and hearts to children who cannot live with their own families, whether that be for a few days, weeks, months or even years. There can be many reasons why such situations arise, for example family illness, crisis, or situations where home isn’t safe. Fostering is unique in that it combines the responsibilities of parenting with professional duties, all within the foster carer’s own home. It is a regulated role that involves training, checks, and approval to ensure children are safe and supported. Foster carers work closely with social workers, schools, and other professionals to support children, yet many say they feel unheard or undervalued, despite often knowing the child well and supporting them closely. So, what do foster carers want you to know about the day-to-day realities and challenges of fostering? 

Jo Strang, lecturer in health and social care at The Open University, spoke to five foster carers to gain their insights and reflections on their experiences.

Transcript 158.2 KB

For foster carers, ensuring their voices are listened to, and that they are adequately supported, is essential not only for their own well-being but also for the quality and continuity of care provided to children. When foster carers advocate for the children in their care and don’t feel fully heard it can trigger a variety of emotions.

It is frustrating and you’re kind of under pressure to try and make something happen and you can’t.

Hearing and valuing their perspectives can inform better decision-making about children’s needs, placement stability, and support services. Too often, decisions about children, are made without meaningful consultation, leaving carers feeling powerless in processes that directly affect their lives and the children they care for. 

Support

Support for foster carers extends beyond financial allowances. Emotional and professional support through supervision and training, is critical for sustaining their motivation and resilience. Fostering is both rewarding and demanding, involving complex relationships and exposure to trauma and uncertainty. However, without consistent support, carers may experience burnout, compassion fatigue and moral injury. There is already a longstanding shortage of foster carers in the UK and they may leave fostering altogether, creating instability for children and deepening the recruitment and retention crisis in the sector. Fostering Network reports that 60% of foster carers have considered leaving, often due to lack of support, feeling undervalued by professionals, or the impact fostering has on their wellbeing (The Fostering Network, 2024, p.17). If we want a compassionate and sustainable fostering system, professionals must listen to foster carers and respect their contribution. Doing so can improve foster carers’ wellbeing  and ultimately benefit the children who rely on them.

Recognising foster carers as partners in the team around the child, and not local authority resources, strengthens the entire care system. Valuing their voices promotes trust, collaboration, and shared responsibility in achieving the best outcomes for children. When carers feel respected, supported, and included in decision-making, everyone benefits, the carers, the professionals, and the children whose lives depend on stable and nurturing care.