Can Fostering be a Full-time Job?

For many people, fostering is not just something they do alongside other work. It becomes their full-time role and a central part of their daily life. Caring for a child who has experienced change or trauma takes time, energy and commitment, and it can be as demanding as any other profession.

Some foster carers choose to combine fostering with other work, particularly when they offer respite or short-break placements. In these cases, it can be easier to balance work and fostering, especially if the child or young person is older and more independent.

For others, fostering takes up the majority of their time. Looking after a child in primary school, for example, means being available for school runs, appointments and after-school activities. It also means being present for the everyday moments that build trust and a sense of belonging.

Because every child and every foster family is different, there is no single way to approach it. What matters most is ensuring that each child has the care and attention they need to feel safe and supported. That is why we ask that at least one foster carer in each household is available full-time, so the child has a stable and consistent presence in their life.

If you are thinking about fostering, we will work closely with you to find the right arrangement for your situation. Some carers balance fostering with other responsibilities, while others embrace it as their focus. Whatever path you choose, fostering has the power to be a meaningful and fulfilling full-time role.