Fostering in Birmingham

Birmingham is the UK’s largest local authority area, so many children in the city need foster homes. In Birmingham, the council’s fostering service is run by Birmingham Children’s Trust, and a large number of independent fostering agencies also have offices in the city.

Fostering agencies in Birmingham

Fostering services in Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield:

You can also browse all fostering agencies in the West Midlands or see fostering in Bromsgrove and Worcestershire.

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What fostering is like in Birmingham

Birmingham is one of the most diverse cities in the country, and services particularly welcome carers who reflect the cultures, faiths and languages of the children they look after. Specialist services, such as fostering for children with disabilities, are also available.

Council or independent fostering agency?

Council fostering services work directly with the local authority responsible for the child, and children are often placed close to home. Independent fostering agencies (IFAs) recruit and support carers on behalf of councils, often care for children with more complex needs, and may offer higher fees and extra support. Some IFAs are charities and others are private companies – it is worth speaking to more than one before you decide.

How much do foster carers get paid?

Every foster carer in England receives at least the government’s national minimum allowance to cover the cost of caring for a child. For April 2026 to April 2027 the weekly minimums outside London and the South East are:

  • £176 for a child aged 0 to 2
  • £182 for a child aged 3 to 4
  • £201 for a child aged 5 to 10
  • £227 for a child aged 11 to 15
  • £267 for a young person aged 16 to 17

Most councils and agencies pay more than the minimum, and many add a weekly fee for the carer’s skills and experience. Foster carers also benefit from qualifying care relief, a generous tax relief. Always ask each service for its full fees and allowances.

For full 2026/27 rates across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, see How much do foster carers get paid?

How to become a foster carer

  • Make an enquiry – a short, no-obligation chat with your chosen service.
  • Home visit – a social worker visits to talk about fostering and your home.
  • Training – a preparation course such as Skills to Foster.
  • Assessment – a detailed assessment over a few months, including checks and references.
  • Fostering panel – an independent panel recommends whether you are approved.

Fostering in Birmingham: FAQs

Do I need to own my home?

No – you can rent or own, but you will usually need a spare bedroom. See Can I foster if I don’t own my home?

Can I foster if I work full-time?

Sometimes, depending on the child’s age and needs. Read Can you foster if you work full-time?

Can single people foster?

Yes. You can foster whether you are single, married or in a relationship, LGBTQ+, and of any faith or none.

Learn more

Read our free fostering guide, see is fostering right for you? or browse fostering guides for other areas.