Can You Work and Be a Foster Carer? Absolutely! Here’s What You Need to Know
Many people believe that fostering is a full-time role that doesn’t allow room for other work commitments. However, the reality is that many foster carers successfully balance fostering with part-time or even full-time employment. If you’ve ever considered fostering but worried about whether you could continue working, we’re here to reassure you—it’s possible! Here are some key things to consider.
Some key things to consider…
Understanding the Time Commitment
Fostering is more than just providing a home; it’s about offering stability, guidance, and care to a child in need. This means attending meetings, training, and supporting the child emotionally and practically. However, this doesn’t mean you must be at home 24/7. The level of time commitment varies depending on the needs of the child you foster.
For instance, fostering older children or those who are in school can allow for more flexibility during the day, making it easier to manage a part-time job. Similarly, respite or short-term placements may be more manageable alongside work commitments than long-term placements.
Flexible Working and Fostering
Many foster carers work in jobs that offer flexible hours, remote working, or part-time schedules. Some carers run their own businesses, work freelance, or have jobs that allow them to adjust their hours to accommodate fostering. Employers are becoming increasingly supportive of foster carers, with some even offering additional leave or flexible working arrangements. Find out more: TFN Fostering Friendly Employer programme
If you’re in employment and thinking about fostering, it’s worth speaking to your employer about whether they can offer any support, such as adjusting your work schedule to fit around your fostering commitments.
Comparing to Other Sources of Income
Many people look for extra income streams, whether through side jobs, freelancing, or gig work. Compared to other sources of income, fostering offers financial support through allowances and payments that help cover the costs of caring for a child. While fostering isn’t simply a job—it’s a commitment to a child’s wellbeing—it does provide financial support that can make it a viable option alongside part-time work.
Single and Fostering: Making It Work
Single individuals who work part-time can absolutely foster. While fostering does require a commitment, it’s entirely possible to create a balance that works. Support networks are key—whether that’s family, friends, or fellow foster carers who can offer advice and help when needed.
Many single carers find that fostering gives them a sense of purpose and fulfilment, providing not just a home for a child but a new dimension to their own lives. With good planning, a strong support system, and possibly some adjustments to work schedules, fostering can be a rewarding option for single people who want to make a difference.
Real Stories from Our Foster Carers
Our carers have a lot to say about fostering – check out these videos and more on our YouTube channel!
❤️ Lee & Stewart, Hull: “Fostering is possibly the best job in the world! But then it’s not a job is it…” (Watch their story now)
💙 Karen & Mark, Yorkshire: “Fostering is the best thing I’ve ever done!” (Watch their video story here)
Their stories aren’t unique—there are foster carers across England making a difference every day. Could you be one of them?
Finding the Right Support
If you’re considering fostering while working, The Foster Care Charity is here to help. We provide guidance, training, and support to ensure you feel confident in your fostering journey. Every foster carer’s situation is unique, and we’ll work with you to find a placement that fits your lifestyle and work commitments.
Could You Foster?
If you’ve been thinking about fostering but weren’t sure whether you could balance it with work, why not have a chat with us? We’d love to talk through your options and help you explore whether fostering could be the right fit for you.
📞 Call us today to learn more – UK FreePhone 0800 0856 538
📍 Book an appointment with our team via our at Contact Us page
There are children out there who need someone just like you. Could you open your home and heart to them? We don’t think you’ll regret becoming a foster parent. ❤️
