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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:

  • Answering questions openly and honestly over the phone or in person

  • Offering comprehensive training which explains exactly what professional foster care today includes

  • 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.

Children holding hands at party in park
A parent holds the hand of a small child

Frequently asked questions

  • Do I need a spare room?
    Yes. Your spare room needs to be adequate size for a bed, wardrobe, and a desk.
  • How old do I need to be?
    You must be 21 years or over. There is no upper age limit.
  • Do all foster carers have training?
    Yes. Fostering is a professional role therefore it is important foster carers attend regular training. Training is to help you as a foster carer and to help keep children safe. Don't worry if it has been a long time since you did any training. The staff team and the carer group are very understanding and kind. You will likely meet others in the same situation as it is a chance to meet other foster carers.
  • Do foster carers get a say in which child is placed?
    Yes. All information we have is shared with you and you can make an informed decision. We will have detailed discussions together.
  • What if I have a police record?
    This does not automatically preclude you. It can depend on a number of things such as type of offence, how long ago it was and the circumstances at the time. The best approach is to have an early conversation about it.
  • I rent: can I still foster?
    Yes. Lots of foster carers rent.
  • Can I foster if I am Single?
    Yes. We have other single carers registered with us.
  • Can I move to foster?
    Yes. You can look to move to foster in a different property. It is helpful to discuss this early in the process. You may wish to sell or rent your existing home in order to move elsewhere. Orchard Care has sometimes found ways to support people to do this.
  • Can a downstairs room be used as a child's bedroom?
    Yes. As long as the living arrangements are deemed suitable. This may also open up opportunities for children with mobility difficulties.
  • LGBTQI+ Fostering
    We believe that it’s your personal qualities and what you can offer that make you a great foster parent and not your gender or sexual orientation.
  • Can I foster if I have pets?
    Yes. Many foster carers have pets.
  • Do I need to drive?
    It is not essential. What is important is that you can carry out your responsibilities as a foster carer.

More about eligibility and support for those who want to provide foster care

Foster Training and Support

Find out about the training and ongoing support available from the experienced team at Orchard Care Fostering

Foster Training and Support

Foster Care Allowance

Explore the allowance and how much you would be paid as a foster carer in the Northeast

foster care allowance

Eligibility

Everyone is welcome at Orchard Care Fostering and we can give you all the information you need regarding eligibility

eligibility

Children In Care

Learn more about the children and young people you could help if you were to become a foster carer with us

children in care
FAQs

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

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