Quick answer: often yes, but it depends on the fostering service and the child. Many foster carers work part time, and some work full time, especially couples where one partner is the main carer, or carers of older children and short breaks. Some services ask for the main carer to be available full time, so ask each service about its policy.
Why fostering services ask about work
Children in foster care have often been through a lot. When a child first arrives they need time, routine and someone who can attend meetings, school appointments, health checks and family time (contact). Carers are also expected to complete training. Services ask about work to make sure there is enough time and flexibility to meet a child’s needs, not to stop you working.
Types of fostering that fit around a job
- Respite or short breaks: caring for a child for weekends or short periods to give their usual carers a break. This is popular with people who work full time.
- Older children and teenagers: secondary school pupils who travel to school on their own leave more free time during the day.
- Couples: one partner works while the other is the main carer.
- Working from home or flexible jobs: if you can attend meetings and be home after school, this often works well.
- Emergency and short-term fostering usually need more availability, so they are harder to combine with a full-time job.
Council vs independent agency policies
Policies differ. Some councils are happy for single carers to work part time; some independent agencies, especially those caring for children with higher needs, expect one carer to be available full time and pay a higher fee to reflect that. Comparing a few services is the best way to find one that fits your working life.
Fostering income and your job
Foster carers receive an allowance for each child and, with most services, a fee. Some people reduce their hours as they take on more placements. Fostering income is taxed differently from wages thanks to qualifying care relief. Read our guide to how much foster carers get paid for current rates.
Talk to your employer
Some employers offer fostering-friendly policies, such as paid leave for assessment meetings and training. It is worth asking HR before you apply.
Find a service that fits your working life
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FAQs
Can a single person foster and work full time?
Sometimes. Many single carers work part time, and some services allow full-time work for respite care or older children. Others require the carer to be available full time, so ask each service.
Do I have to give up my job to foster?
No, not usually. Most services will look at your working pattern with you and suggest the type of fostering that fits. You may need some flexibility for meetings, training and the early weeks of a placement.
What type of fostering is best if I work full time?
Respite or short-break fostering is usually the easiest to combine with a full-time job, as children stay at weekends or for short periods.
Can I work from home and foster?
Yes, many carers do. Services will want to know you can step away for meetings and be available when the child needs you.
