Our shared goal is to recruit and support dedicated foster carers who can make a profound difference in the lives of vulnerable children, helping them to grow and thrive in an environment filled with care and stability.

Through our collaborative approach, we strive to create a more inclusive fostering community that can support children from diverse backgrounds. This includes those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), children who need to stay with siblings, and those in need of long-term or more specialised care. We work to ensure that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential in a caring, understanding, and nurturing environment.

Why Fostering Matters

Fostering is not just about providing a temporary home—it’s about offering a life-changing opportunity to children who need it most. Many of the children in our care come from diverse cultural backgrounds, with Black and minority ethnic children often requiring families who not only understand their needs but also celebrate and respect their culture. The demand for foster carers is growing, and we need individuals who can offer more than just a place to stay—they need to offer a loving home and a sense of belonging.

These children deserve carers who are not only ready to meet their emotional and physical needs but also able to help them navigate the complexities of life. Fostering has the power to transform lives, not just for the children who need care, but for the carers who open their hearts and homes to them.

Could You Be a Foster Carer?

Fostering South West believes that anyone who has the capacity to provide love, care, and support can foster. Whether you’re single, a couple, or a family, your ability to offer a safe, stable, and nurturing environment is what matters most. There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to fostering, and we welcome people from all walks of life and backgrounds.

We are particularly seeking carers who can offer support to children with additional needs, sibling groups who need to stay together, and those in need of long-term care. If you have the commitment, patience, and passion for making a difference, fostering could be an incredibly rewarding experience for you.

What Support Will You Receive?

When you join Fostering South West, you’re not doing it alone. We are here to support you every step of the way with expert guidance, advice, and training. You will have access to:

• 24/7 Support: Our team is available around the clock to provide help and answer any questions you may have.
• Specialist Training: From understanding the complexities of trauma to providing specific care for children with SEND, we offer comprehensive training to ensure you are well-prepared.
• Community and Networking: As part of our partnership, you will have the opportunity to connect with a wider community of foster carers, sharing experiences and gaining insights from those who are already fostering.
• Tailored Advice: With 15 local councils involved, you will benefit from support that is specific to your region, ensuring that you have access to localised resources and professionals who are dedicated to your success as a foster carer.

We recognise that fostering can be a challenging but incredibly rewarding experience, and our dedicated team is here to ensure that you feel supported and confident in your journey.

Here’s a quote from one of our dedicated foster carers:

“Fostering has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life. It’s not always easy, but the rewards are incredible. Watching the children I care for grow, thrive, and overcome challenges is truly inspiring. I know that, in some small way, I am helping to change their lives for the better, and that’s something I’ll never take for granted.”

We believe fostering can be a life-changing experience—for both the children in care and the foster carers themselves. The work you do matters. It’s more than just offering a bed for the night; it’s about offering a future filled with opportunity, hope, and love.

Our Partner Councils

We are proud to work with the following local councils across the South West:

• Bath and North East Somerset
• Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole
• Bristol
• Cornwall
• Devon
• Dorset
• Gloucestershire
• Isles of Scilly
• North Somerset
• Plymouth
• Somerset
• South Gloucestershire
• Swindon
• Torbay
• Wiltshire

This broad network of councils means we can offer foster carers a strong community of professionals and peers, ensuring that you have access to the best support possible.

Get Involved: Become a Foster Carer Today

Fostering is one of the most meaningful ways you can make a difference in the world. If you’re considering becoming a foster carer, we invite you to take the next step and join us on this journey. We’re here to answer any questions you might have and guide you through the process. Whether you want to learn more or are ready to start your fostering journey, don’t hesitate to contact us today.