Balancing work and fostering
At Lincolnshire Fostering, we understand that financial security is a crucial factor when considering fostering, especially during the ongoing cost of living challenges. Everyone’s situation is different, and many of our foster carers successfully balance employment with their fostering responsibilities. However, it's important to consider how fostering will fit into your life before you apply.
Can you work and foster?
Yes, absolutely. In fact, The Fostering Network reports that nearly 40% of foster carers continue working while fostering. We fully support this provided that the needs of the child always come first, the same as you would with your own children.
Fostering is a deeply rewarding role, but it can also be demanding. Carers need to be available during school holidays, in emergencies, and when a child is unwell. Some foster carers choose to reduce their working hours or take a career break to ensure they can provide the level of care and attention each child deserves.
For FOCUS foster carers, there is an expectation that you, or an assessed member of your support network will be available to provide full-time care for a child, who may not be in full-time education, unless the child is spending time with a short-stay carer. Support and advice relating to FOCUS fostering and work, can be provided by the Fostering Service.
Considerations if you want to work while fostering
Before applying, think about how your job and lifestyle can adapt to the demands of fostering. Key questions include:
- How flexible is your employer? Can you adjust your working hours when needed?
- What are your regular working hours? Will they allow you to meet a child’s needs?
- Are you fostering alone or with a partner? If you're fostering as a couple, can one of you take on the primary caregiving role?
- Do you have a support network? Friends or family nearby can provide essential help in emergencies.
- What type of fostering are you interested in? Emergency or short-term may require more immediate availability.
- What age group are you considering? Younger children generally require more supervision, while older children may be more independent.
- Are you considering specialist fostering? Children with complex needs will likely require greater time and attention.
Can you foster and work full-time?
Yes, many foster carers successfully balance fostering with full-time work. The type of fostering you choose can help make this possible; for example, short breaks or planned weekend care can often fit around a full-time job. If you’re fostering as part of a couple, one person may work full-time while the other provides more hands-on care. The most important thing is that the needs of the child are fully met, including their safety, development and emotional wellbeing.
Meeting your foster child’s needs
Fostering isn’t just about offering a place to stay; it’s about offering a stable, nurturing environment where a child can thrive. If you’re planning to work while fostering, ask yourself if you can still meet the essential responsibilities, including:
- Providing day-to-day care like cooking, cleaning, and personal care
- Transporting the child to school, appointments, and extracurricular activities
- Attending meetings and reviews concerning the child’s care
- Completing fostering training and ongoing development
- Supporting contact with the child’s birth family (if appropriate)
- Taking part in support groups and peer networks
If you believe you can offer a warm, stable, and supportive home while maintaining the flexibility to prioritise a child’s needs, we’d love to speak with you.
Our friendly, experienced team can answer your questions and help you explore the best path forward.
“I work during the week and offer weekend respite care once a month to the same little girls, giving their foster carer a much-needed break. It allows me to maintain financial stability while providing the girls with a weekend of fun and familiarity with someone they trust."