England's fostering system is in crisis, with a 10% drop in fostering households since 2021 and an ageing carer population. As the government launches its first national recruitment campaign, can flexible care models fix the child placement shortfall?
Viennetta Basterfield, 67, spent two decades fostering over 100 children in her west London home. Her own mother died when she was nine, and she was raised by another woman who took her in. "The greatest gift you can give a child is to show them that they matter," she says. But she worries about the future of fostering, citing bureaucracy and younger generations' reservations.
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The Fostering Crisis in Numbers
The number of fostering households has dropped 10% since 2021, while the number of children in care continues to rise. Over one in three foster carers are now aged 60 or over, and the government's new campaign targets adults in their 30s and 40s.
| Year | Fostering Households | Children in Care |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | ~44,000 | ~80,000 |
| 2023 | ~39,600 | ~83,000 |
| Change | -10% | +3.75% |
Why Flexible Care Models Matter
Flexible care models, such as part-time fostering, respite care, and supported lodgings, allow carers to balance fostering with work or family commitments. These models can attract younger adults who might otherwise be deterred by the demands of full-time fostering.
Types of Flexible Fostering
- Respite care: Short-term breaks for full-time foster carers.
- Part-time fostering: Regular but limited hours, often weekends or school holidays.
- Supported lodgings: Providing a room and support for older teenagers.
- Emergency fostering: Short-notice placements for a few nights.
Barriers to Fostering
Bureaucracy and financial concerns are major barriers. Many potential carers are put off by lengthy assessment processes and the fear of not being able to cope. Younger generations also worry about juggling fostering with their own children.
Government Campaign and Future Outlook
The government's national foster carer recruitment campaign aims to address these barriers by promoting flexible options and streamlining the process. However, experts argue that more systemic changes, such as better pay and support, are needed to truly fix the shortfall.
FAQ
What is the fostering crisis in England?
The fostering crisis refers to the declining number of foster carers (down 10% since 2021) alongside a rising number of children in care, leading to placement shortages.
What are flexible care models in fostering?
Flexible care models include part-time fostering, respite care, supported lodgings, and emergency fostering, which allow carers to foster while managing other commitments.
How can I become a foster carer?
You can contact your local authority or a fostering agency. The process involves an assessment, training, and approval. Flexible options are increasingly available.
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