Cookie Consent by Privacy Policies Generator website

Fostering information events and FAQs

Join us at one of our events to find out more about fostering 

From information about the process to myth busting, our team will happily answer any questions you have on becoming a foster carer with the council.

Keep an eye on this page for updates on our next information event. If you'd like to speak to a member of the team now, you can contact Foster With North East [external link]. Or if you'd like to know more, take a look at our our fostering videos.

Radio presenter Pandora: my experience in foster care

What is 'Supported Lodgings' radio presenter Pandora explains

Find out more about providing a young person with Supported Lodgings

We want to recruit people to provide Supported Lodgings for young people (aged 16-21).

Supported Lodgings providers enable a young person to reside in their home, supporting and encouraging them develop independent living skills.

Providing a safe and secure home base for a young person can make a real difference to their life and to their future.

Providers can be in employment, and earn some additional income too.

Interested but concerned that you may not be eligible?

You may be surprised! Take our fostering quiz and find out why you might be just the sort of person we are looking for.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an age limit?

No, your age doesn’t reflect your ability to foster a child. There is no upper age limit, You must be 21 years of age.

What if I’m not married?

You can foster if you are single. Some children may benefit from a single parent environment. Unmarried couples may also adopt/foster as well as same-sex couples.

I am unemployed, can I foster?

Yes. We encourage a range of backgrounds to come forward to foster.

I work full time, can I still foster?

Yes. As long as the child’s needs are met then you can foster. You may want to consider becoming a supported lodgings provider as a way to help others while in full time employment as it wont interrupt your career.

I don’t own a home?

Yes. All you need is room to care for a child in an environment that is safe, stable and secure.

I smoke, will this affect my chances?

Yes. You would not be able to foster a child under 5 years old, however, there are many older children who need fostering.

I have a disability, can I foster?

Yes. You would be assessed on your abilities to look after a child and all factors of your health would be taken into consideration.

I already have children, can I still foster?

Yes, you can. Your children would be involved as part of the assessment. Learn more about fostering alongside your own children.

I have a criminal conviction, how will this affect me?

If you or a member or your household have a criminal conviction or caution for offences against children or for serious sexual offences you will not be able to foster. Other criminal offences will not automatically exclude you but will be taken into consideration during the assessment process, so please be open with your agency from the start.

I don’t live in Darlington - am I eligible?

You don't have to live in Darlington to foster with us. We welcome applications within a 20 mile radius. If you wish to foster then your location will be looked upon and if it happens to be too far for your and the children's needs then we will help you get in touch with a local authority closer to where you live.

Install our web app.