There is a common misconception that foster carers must be members of nuclear families or long standing relationships – but this simply isn’t true. Single people can become foster carers – in fact, single foster parents are eagerly sought after.
Interested in learning more about single parent fostering? Our guide covers it all. From training to allowances, our team at Capstone can help you transform a child’s life.
Yes – you can become a foster parent if you’re single. There is no stipulation that you must be married or in a relationship to foster. The main requirements for fostering are as follows:
However, if you’re considering becoming a single foster parent, you will also need to be incredibly patient, caring, and compassionate. Why? With only one pair of hands, fostering as a single parent can be a little more demanding than fostering in a couple. With that said, our team at Capstone are always on hand to offer a wealth of support - from training to networking, you will have the support of our expert team and community of like-minded carers.
Thinking of becoming a single foster parent? Fill out an enquiry form or call 0800 012 4004 today. Once you’ve started the application process, you will work closely with a social worker, attend training sessions and meet other applicants and foster carers.
From the very beginning of your journey, we will ensure that you feel part of the Capstone community. Our support for our foster carers is comprehensive – from specialist circumstances to common fostering challenges - we are there through all the highs and lows of parenting.
Fostering as a single parent is an incredible way to build a new and fulfilling career. Whether you’re a single man or woman, you may possess the necessary skills to care for a child. Remember, any single person is eligible to become a foster parent – it is not a gender-specific role.
Often, there is an expectation that foster parents should be available 24/7. However, this is not necessarily the case. Depending on their age, some foster children will be in school Monday to Friday. During these hours, carers have the opportunity to work outside of the home. However, when you account for the meetings with teachers, agency social workers, and other professionals regarding the child’s education, health, and social adjustment, it can become increasingly difficult for a single foster parent to sustain a separate career outside of fostering.
To learn more, read our article 'Can I Foster and Work?'.
Finances are often a concern for single foster parents who have previously worked outside of the home. However, at Capstone, we like to reassure all our carers and applicants that fostering is a career and that you will be renumerated accordingly.
Our foster care allowances cover the cost of housing, clothing, food, mileage and more. You will also receive a reward for your time skill based on each fostering placement. However, there are additional payments available for children with special needs and requirements (i.e. therapeutic placements).
Read ‘How much do Foster Carers Get Paid?’ to receive a full financial breakdown.
As a single carer, you may have preferences as to the type of placements you get. Some prefer short term or emergency placements, whilst others prefer long term placements. Unfortunately, there is no way to guarantee the length of a placement because each child’s situation is unique. Often, a short term placement can become a long term placement so it’s important to keep an open mind during the application process.
With that said, single parent foster carers who opt to provide respite care will have more clarity about the duration of their placement as respite care is planned in advance with the parents - foster or otherwise.
It is also important to mention, that whilst there are several different types of foster care, the majority of placements available are for children aged between 10 and 18.
Thinking of fostering as a single parent? Start your fostering journey today! Together, we can transform the lives of young people and help them build a brighter future. Fill out the form below or contact Capstone Foster Care for more information at 0800 012 4004.
If you’ve got any questions or would like to find out more about fostering with Capstone, fill out the form below.
An experienced fostering advisor from your local area will then be in touch.
Start the conversation today. Our team of friendly advisors are on hand to answer any foster care questions you may have. We can offer you honest and practical advice that can help you decide if becoming a foster carer is the right path for you.
