Blog

Fostering guides, news and advice

Honest, practical writing on choosing a fostering provider, what to expect from the assessment process, allowances, training and the day-to-day realities of life as a foster carer.

Young boy in a teal hoodie lying on the grass in a sunny garden, drawing in a sketchbook with a fan of colouring pencils spread around him, with pink roses blooming in the background
Guides
How much do foster parents get paid in London? Your complete guide
1 July 2026 · 11 min read
A transparent breakdown of the London fostering pay scale — allowances, professional fees, tax exemptions, and specialist rates for 2026/2027. Covers councils, charities, and independent agencies.
Resources
Why Life Story Work Matters for Children in Care
30 June 2026 · 7 min read
For children growing up in care, the everyday details that make up a sense of identity often go unrecorded. This is why life story work matters — and how My Life Story can help foster carers capture those moments.
Guides
Local authority or independent agency? A guide to choosing in Greater Manchester
30 June 2026 · 9 min read
Greater Manchester has ten separate local authority fostering services — not one. This guide breaks down the real trade-offs between going LA and going IFA, and what to ask at your first conversation.
Guides
Fostering in the West Midlands: your guide to agencies, areas and getting started
17 June 2026 · 10 min read
A regional overview of the fostering landscape across all seven West Midlands boroughs — understanding your provider options, whether your location matters, and how to take your first steps.
Guides
How to become a foster carer in Birmingham: a step-by-step guide
17 June 2026 · 12 min read
A plain-English guide to the fostering landscape in Birmingham — understanding your provider options, who can apply, and the six steps from first enquiry to full approval.
Guides
How to choose a fostering agency: 10 vital questions to ask
12 June 2026 · 9 min read
Our ultimate guide on how to choose a fostering agency, featuring the 10 vital questions you must ask any provider on your shortlist.