Scotland needs foster carers. Could you help?

Thinking about fostering? Start by finding out more.

If you're interested in learning more about fostering, leave your details below and we'll send you information about fostering with Action for Children.

You don't need to be ready to apply, and there's absolutely no pressure. Many people begin by simply gathering information and asking questions, and that's exactly what we're here for.

Whether you're just starting to explore the idea or already considering your next steps, we're here to help you learn at your own pace.

Our experienced team can answer your questions and help you understand what's involved, from the support and training available to the financial support, including a professional fee and allowances of up to £870 per week.

If you'd prefer to speak to someone directly, our friendly team is just a phone call or email away.

call or email our team today.

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Wondering about financial support?

Fostering comes with allowances and ongoing support. Get in touch and we'll explain how it works, answer your questions, and help you decide whether fostering is right for you.

Fostering changes lives

Action for Children Fostering welcomes foster carers from all walks of life. We value the amazing work you do and we are here for you 24/7 year-round. We will give you all the support, training and guidance you will need to become a great foster carer. Could you foster?

Statement of purpose

View our current service statement of purpose.

Types of fostering

Long-term fostering

Also know as "long term home", this could last for many years and into adulthood.

Action for Children Fostering will be with you all the way, supporting you emotionally, financially, and with regular training. We offer 24/7, year-round support with a dedicated, qualified social worker.

Many of our foster carers give children a long term home until they’re ready to live on their own.

Some young people stay with their foster family into adulthood, whether they study or work. This is what we call “staying put”. We want children to feel part of a family.

Planned breaks

Planned breaks carers play a vital role in supporting full-time foster carers and young people.

Providing cover during holidays and weekends gives full-time carers the chance to recharge their batteries and enables children to have new experiences. You will get to know different young people, so if you're good at building relationships, this could be for you! It would involve you looking after a child or young person for a few days, usually on a regular basis.

It’s also a great way for people considering fostering to get hands-on experience before committing fully.

You would still be provided with the same high level of support, training, and resources as all our other foster carers.

Continuing care

Siblings

Where possible we try to keep brothers and sisters together.

Sibling relationships, like all relationships, are complex - especially when there has been a difficult history. But it’s usually in the best interests of the child to stay with their siblings.

Many of our carers that foster siblings comment on how rewarding it is.

There’s nothing better than knowing you are keeping siblings together. Giving them the opportunity to grow up together and have shared experiences. Helping them have that shared history.