The government has launched a multi-million pound initiative aimed at recruiting 10,000 additional foster carers by the end of the next parliamentary term, in a bid to address a persistent decline in support for vulnerable children across the UK.
Ambitious Plan to Reverse Long-Term Decline
Backed by £88 million in funding, this new strategy promises to modernise the fostering system by opening it up to younger and more diverse households, sweeping away outdated regulations, and enhancing support for carers to reduce attrition rates. Ministers describe the plan as a major reset that will simplify bureaucratic processes, strengthen regional fostering hubs, and test more flexible care models.
Charities Welcome Ambition but Call for More Investment
Fostering charities have broadly welcomed the announcement, though they emphasise that the ambition must be matched with increased investment. Sarah Thomas, chief executive of The Fostering Network, highlighted that the cost-of-living crisis is forcing many carers to leave the system due to financial pressures. She urged the government to allocate more funds to ensure carers are adequately remunerated.
Frontline Carers Warn of Systemic Issues
However, foster carers on the frontline argue that the crisis extends beyond mere recruitment. Jamie Hirst, who fosters three teenage boys in Stockport, stated that the system is already at breaking point, with most carers operating at full capacity. He called for a comprehensive overhaul rather than minor adjustments, citing a lack of support from children's social workers as a key issue.
Historical Context and Ongoing Challenges
This is not the first time ministers have pledged to tackle the foster care shortage. Over the past decade, successive governments have announced similar recruitment drives, including commitments in the 2018 fostering reforms and the 2022 children's social care strategy. Despite these efforts, the number of approved foster carers in England has fallen by nearly 12% over the last ten years, with more carers leaving than joining.
Impact on Children and Local Authorities
With an estimated shortfall of around 8,000 foster carers, the system is struggling to meet demand. Approximately 99,000 children are in care in Britain, but only about 49,000 fostering households are available. This shortage often results in children being placed far from their communities or moved into residential care, which can be more disruptive, expensive, and potentially expose them to exploitation. In 2022, local authorities spent £4.7 billion on residential placements, a cost that councils find increasingly difficult to bear.
Personal Testimonies Highlight Need for Change
Former foster carer Bryony Farmer shared her experience, explaining that she left fostering because the system was too challenging to navigate. She emphasised that foster carers are professionals performing a critical role that requires substantial support, not just goodwill. Minister for Children and Families, Josh MacAlister, reiterated the urgency of reversing the decline, describing fostering as vital for giving vulnerable children a stable and loving start in life.
