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Our mission is to create brighter futures for children and young people. We do this by providing fostering, residential and support services where children and young people can feel safe and cared for. We support them to make positive relationships which give them the confidence to succeed.
Fostering is when a child or young person in care comes to live with you.
You look after them and provide a safe and caring home to meet their needs. Alongside the support of a social worker and other professionals, you will enable them the thrive and create a brighter future.
Watch the video on the left to learn the answers to some common fostering questions. Or check out our short guide to fostering with a charity such as St Christopher’s.
Absolutely, we accept transfer applications from existing foster carers. Get in touch with us to find out how the process works.
No, but you must be over 21.
You do not need to be in a relationship and can be a lone carer.
No.
Absolutely. We welcome all individuals keen to make a difference for children in need.
We carefully match all fostering families and many have their own children already.
There are different ways to flexibly foster, which may fit into your current lifestyle.
Yes. We welcome all applicants. As part of the assessments all carers undertake to prepare for fostering, you will complete a full medical to confirm they are physically able to care for children without risking their health. We will also build in extra support as needed.
Yes. Our training and support will help you on your fostering journey.
Yes. As long as you have a spare room and references.
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Foster carers need to be empathetic, compassionate and patient. As every child is different with their own individual needs, we welcome prospective foster carers of all sexualities, marital statuses, religions and life experiences so that we can find the perfect match for every young person.
You will need to:
Foster carers do all the things that good parents do – help children with homework, support them if they are upset, and show them what life can be like in a happy family. They give young people the opportunity to enjoy their childhood in a safe, caring home.
As they grow older, carers will teach a young person the skills they’ll need for living independently. Whether it’s cooking, paying bills or generally looking after themselves, foster carers are there even for the small things.
Watch the video on the left to hear from Keith, a St Christopher’s carer, about his experiences of fostering.
