Why foster a child?

Foster parents change the lives of children and young people every day. Learn more about fostering – one of the most varied, challenging and meaningful jobs you can do.

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Why do children need foster care?

Children and young people need foster care for many reasons. It may be because of parental illness, family breakdown and troubles at home, or a situation that threatens their welfare, such as abuse and neglect.

Although every child and young person’s story is unique, they have all had to come to terms with the loss and grief of being separated from their birth families.

What to expect as a foster parent

When children move into care, they may have trauma that impacts their behaviour and ability to form positive attachments and relationships. They may struggle to articulate their feelings in a healthy way and communicate through their behaviour instead. Some children will express big emotions, while others may completely withdraw and refuse your care.

As a foster parent, it’s crucial to remember that their behaviour is not personal; these children and young people have had a difficult start to life and need loving, nurturing and stable homes to heal.

When you foster with FCA, we take care of you. We support and empower you to provide therapeutic foster care for children and young people who need it most. With over 30 years of experience, we understand that fostering children can sometimes be as challenging as it is rewarding.

Wondering if fostering is right for you?

We know fostering is a big decision, and you may have questions about who can foster, where you can foster, and how fostering will affect your family. We encourage you to visit our support pages and check out our FAQs.

We are here to help you make an informed decision and support you at every step. But, if you have qualities such as patience, understanding and a drive to help children and young people flourish, fostering could be right for you.

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Reasons to foster

There are lots of reasons to become a foster parent. Not only will you give a child or young person the fresh start they need, but you’ll also give them a second chance at a happy childhood and the opportunity to follow their dreams.

It takes courage to begin your fostering journey, and like anything in life, fostering has its challenges. But, when you foster with FCA, we will be by your side throughout your journey. We’ll ensure you always have the support, training and encouragement you need to make an impactful difference to children and young people.

We are dedicated to our courageous foster parents, and that’s why many end up fostering with us for a long period of time.

Make a difference that lasts a lifetime

Improving the outcomes and lives of all our children and young people is truly at the heart of everything we do. Fostering really can transform your life as well as the lives of those in your care. Knowing you are providing a foster child or young person with a stable and nurturing environment when they need it most is one of the most positive aspects of fostering.

When you join FCA, you become part of a fostering agency that celebrates diversity and welcomes foster parents from all walks of life. We believe that together, we can make a positive change for children and young people that really lasts a lifetime.

Learn new life skills

You don’t need experience to become a foster parent because we provide high-quality training. Our training will give you all the practical skills and knowledge you need to care for children and young people living with trauma.

In addition to our standard training programme, you’ll also have opportunities for professional growth through our specialist and advanced training courses.

Be part of our community

Fostering can be challenging, but it can also be fun. We organise events and activities for the whole family throughout the year so you can connect with people who truly understand the highs and lows of being a foster parent.

You’ll also receive support from our team of fostering experts from the moment you begin your fostering journey. Whether you need support from our therapists, social workers or educational leads, we are here to help you feel confident in your role as a foster parent.

Allison’s fostering story

Allison, a foster parent from FCA Northern Ireland, shares her fostering journey thus far and what it’s like to foster while raising your own children.

Get in touch

Whether you’re ready to start your journey or just want to chat, contact our fostering team today and we’ll answer all your questions.

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