Fostering in Glasgow

Glasgow is Scotland’s largest city, and many children here need foster carers. You can foster with Glasgow City Council through Foster Glasgow, or with one of several independent and charity fostering services in the city.

Fostering services in Glasgow

Fostering services in Glasgow:

You can also browse all fostering services in Scotland or see fostering in Edinburgh.

Not sure which service to contact?

Tell us your postcode and we will put you in touch with up to three fostering services near you. Free, no obligation.

Get matched with a fostering agency

What fostering is like in Glasgow

Glasgow needs carers for babies, teenagers and sibling groups, as well as people who can offer short breaks. Charities such as Barnardo’s Scotland also provide fostering in the city.

Council or independent fostering agency?

Council fostering services work directly with the authority responsible for the child, and children are often placed close to home. Independent fostering agencies recruit and support carers on behalf of councils, often care for children with more complex needs, and may offer higher fees and extra support. Speak to more than one service before you decide.

How much do foster carers get paid in Scotland?

Scottish councils pay foster carers at least the Scottish Recommended Allowance, which rose by 3.8% for 2026/27:

  • £177.68 a week for a child aged 0 to 4
  • £206.71 a week for a child aged 5 to 15
  • £283.35 a week for a young person aged 16 and over

Councils and agencies set their own fees on top of the allowance.

For full 2026/27 rates across the UK, 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 before or during your assessment.
  • Assessment – a detailed assessment over a few months, including checks and references.
  • Fostering panel – an independent panel recommends whether you are approved.

Fostering in Glasgow: 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 or browse fostering guides for other areas.