Become a foster carer
and transform the lives of young people for the better
Orchard Care Fostering is one of the most welcoming and truly supportive fostering agencies you will find, supporting and enabling both foster carers and the young people in their care to thrive and achieve. We are based in Durham and work with families across the Northeast.
Successful fostering that supports children and young people with their identity and the development of life skills and independence.
We can help you to make a real difference.
Are you considering becoming a foster carer? If so, talk to the team at Orchard Care Fostering now. We are a leading not-for-profit fostering agency, and all our thinking and doing is guided by the idea that everything we do forms a small part of the greater whole. We exist as a response to the challenges of the care system and what are often its failings. By following and studying success, combined with decades of practical wisdom and experience, Orchard Care is concerned with applying informed expertise to support foster carers and transform the lives of children for the better.
We know that in order for children to respond and be able to function in the world, they need both to be safe and to be nourished. Foster carers play a vital role in this, providing a safe space and care for children that need it the most.
The team at Orchard Care Fostering work with people who would like to explore becoming a foster carer and support them in their decision-making. At Orchard Care we see it as our role to educate and provide a wealth of information to people considering fostering so they can make an informed decision.
We do this by:
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Answering questions openly and honestly over the phone or in person
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Offering comprehensive training which explains exactly what professional foster care today includes
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Providing experienced Assessors
Find out more about how to become a foster carers and the approval process below, or reach out to our team now to chat to us about becoming a foster carer to a child that needs it now.
How to become a foster carer
Firstly, we arrange to have an informal discussion where you can ask as many questions as you need, this usually takes place with Sarah. We will then arrange to come out to visit you in your own home and have further conversation, typically Maria or Paul will visit you. Through training and assessment we will discuss together what support you and your family require. The needs of all household members are always considered at Orchard Care. Once you are an approved foster carer, you will be allocated a supervising social worker; you will receive a minimum of weekly contact and monthly supervision. However, supervision can be requested at any time and our team always responds without delay.
We will discuss with you information we know about children and young people who are in need of a safe home. We call this process "Referral & Matching". We discuss together a detailed "matching" process and create a tailored support package that meets the needs of the child AND you, and other household members.
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Frequently asked questions
More about eligibility and support for those who want to provide foster care
Want to find out more about the different types of fostering and how you could help a child in need?
Contact Orchard Care Fostering now.
Want further information or a personal chat about becoming a foster carer? Contact Orchard Care Fostering now.
Like most people, you’ve probably got questions to ask before deciding whether fostering is right for you. We can help with all your queries and help you make the right decision for your circumstances. One of our team is available to talk to you over the phone to answer any of your fostering queries. All calls are strictly confidential, and we offer honest and practical advice.
0191 378 4444
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Our offices are open on weekdays only -
Mon to Thurs 8.30am-5pm,
Fri 8.30am-4.30pm
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Our phone line is available 24/7
You can also get in touch with us by emailing info@orchardcare.org.uk