You might already have the skills you need

Fostering starts with everyday strengths. If you're a good listener, stay calm in difficult situations, or support others when they need you, you may already have what it takes to foster.

Ready to explore fostering?

Have a no-commitment chat with our team and get answers to your questions

Get in touch

This is what a foster carer looks like

Dan's story

Hear how Dan became a foster carer and the impact fostering has had on family life.

Rachael's story

Discover what motivated Rachael to foster and the support available along the way.

Watch Dan's story (2 mins)

Dan shares his 15+ years of fostering experience

Watch Rachael's story (4 mins)

After a career in education, Rachael thought fostering might be a way to give something back once her own children had grown up

Who can foster?

There is no single type of foster carer. What matters most is your ability to provide a safe, nurturing environment where a child can thrive. 
 

✓ are single, married or in a relationship 

 ✓ rent your home or own it 

 ✓ have children or don't have children 

 ✓ work, are self-employed, unemployed, or retired 

 ✓ come from any background, culture, or community 

Support, training and payment

When you foster with Dorset Council, you'll receive:  

  • ongoing training and development 

  • weekly payment 

  • a dedicated support network 

  • guidance from experienced professionals 

  • access to Dorset’s fostering community of 400+ families

Every fostering journey is different

Discover real stories from Dorset foster carers about what fostering is really like, the challenges they've faced, the support they've received, and the difference they've made. 
  • listening and understanding 
  • helping children feel safe and valued 
  • building trusting relationships 
  • being reliable and encouraging 
  • staying calm under pressure 
  • being patient and resilient 

Take the next step

Get in touch, explore your options, and find out whether fostering could be right for you. 

Holistic support for carers and their families

Local experienced support service 24/7

Fostering allowances of up to £590* per week