Frequently asked questions
We understand that you may be feeling a little anxious about applying to foster, so we've answered some of the questions we're often asked by members of the LGBT+ community.
Can I become an LGBT foster parent?
We pride ourselves on the positive connections we build with individuals from all walks of life and believe that it’s personal qualities that make somebody a great foster parent, not their gender or sexual orientation.
We’re often asked by people who are lesbian, gay, bi and transgender whether fostering is something they can do. The answer is always a resounding ‘yes’ – above all, we’re looking for caring, kind people who can provide a loving home. And your experiences could be of real help to children who are working out their own sexual identity or who’ve encountered discrimination and prejudice.
And so we want you to know that your application is always welcomed with Fosterplus and will be treated in exactly the same way we treat everybody else’s. Our team are always happy to talk things through or send more information, so please get in touch.
A truly inclusive fostering agency
Our team work hard to create a truly inclusive environment, where staff, foster parents and young people feel safe and without fear of judgement.
From your very first chat with one of our fostering advisors, all the way through to 121 supervision and training with other foster families, you’ll be made to feel welcome and very much part of our incredible organisation.
Fostering LGBT
young people
Our ethos around creating an inclusive and supportive environment very much extends to the LGBT+ young people that we care for.
We understand the support that LGBT young people in foster care need to help them explore and express their sexual orientation without stigma, and provide foster parents with the right guidance and training so young people feel safe, stable and accepted.
Can same sex couples foster?
Yes, absolutely. You apply as a couple and will be assessed as a couple.
Do I need to be married to foster?
Not at all, and we’re happy to recruit single foster parents, male, female or transgender.
Can single people from the LGBTQ community foster?
Absolutely – we have many single foster parents and your gender and sexual identity doesn’t make a difference to your ability to provide a child with a safe, loving environment. Of course, you’ll need to undergo a full fostering assessment before becoming approved and having a child placed in your care.
Will I be treated differently as an LGBTQ foster parent?
No. You’ll have access to the same levels of training and support as everyone else, and the application and assessment process is the same too. So long as you fulfil our basic criteria to foster, you’re welcome to start things moving with our online enquiry form. After that, we’ll visit you at home to ask a few questions and answer any of yours. Then, if you want to take things further, you'll start your assessment, before going to panel to hopefully become approved. We’ll support you at every stage.
Fostering stories
Please make sure you read our terms and conditions because you're agreeing to them by submitting an enquiry. It's also worth reading our privacy policy and cookies policy so you understand how we collect and use your personal data. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Please make sure you read our terms and conditions because you're agreeing to them by submitting an enquiry. It's also worth reading our privacy policy and cookies policy so you understand how we collect and use your personal data. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Discover everything you need to know about fostering by downloading our brochure, including;
- Types of fostering
- Requirements to foster
- Application process
- Training and support
- Allowances and benefits
Fill out your details on the following form and you'll receive our Guide to Fostering.
Can't find what you're looking for?
By phone
One of our team is available to talk to you over the phone to answer any of your fostering queries.
Enquire online
You can get in touch by filling out our online enquiry form with any queries that you may have.
Your local team
Find contact details for your local office team. We’re always happy for you to pop-in and chat.