The Fostering Network

The UK’s Leading Fostering Charity — Supporting Foster Carers and the Children in Their Care

Who It’s For: Foster carers at any stage of their fostering journey — from those thinking about fostering for the first time to experienced carers facing complex challenges. Also relevant to children and young people in foster care, fostering services and professionals working within the fostering system across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

What They Offer: The Fostering Network is the UK’s leading fostering charity and membership organisation, created by foster carers to bring together everyone involved in the lives of fostered children. With over 60,000 foster carer members and relationships with 400 fostering services, they provide advice, training, events, practice support and campaigning. They also run Fosterline England — a free, government-commissioned helpline offering independent advice to existing and prospective foster carers — and Fosterline Scotland, providing equivalent support north of the border.

Support Includes:

• Fosterline England — free, confidential helpline for current and prospective foster carers in England on any fostering query
• Fosterline Scotland — free fostering advice helpline for Scotland
• Member helpline — confidential, independent advice for members on all fostering matters
• Practice support consultants — regional experts offering advice on legislation, best practice and complex fostering situations
• Training and learning and development for foster carers and fostering professionals
• Events, webinars and workshops across the UK
• Moving On project — supporting transitions through and out of foster care
• Young advocates programme — care-experienced young people aged 16–25 shaping education and training
• Resources, publications and guidance on all aspects of foster care
• Campaigning and policy influence for improved recognition and support for foster carers

Referral / Access: Fosterline England is open to all, free of charge — no membership required. The member helpline is available to Fostering Network members. Call Fosterline England on the number below or contact the membership helpline if you are already a member.

Why This Matters: Foster carers open their homes and their hearts to children who need stability, warmth and safety — often at short notice and in the most challenging of circumstances. The Fostering Network exists to make sure those carers are never left to figure it out alone. Whether you are just starting to think about fostering or navigating a difficult situation with a child in your care, there is expert support, a community of fellow carers and someone who will listen.