Fostering in Bedfordshire

Become a foster carer in Bedfordshire and make a life-changing difference to a child in need, while earning a rewarding, tax-free income and receiving full support every step of the way.

Help Change a Child’s Life in Bedfordshire

Are you considering becoming a foster carer in Bedfordshire? At Family Works Fostering, we support people across the county — including Bedford, Luton, Dunstable, and surrounding areas — to offer safe, loving homes to children who need them most. Fostering is one of the most rewarding roles you can take on, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Why Foster in Bedfordshire?

Bedfordshire is a diverse and vibrant area, but like many regions in the UK, it faces a growing demand for foster carers. Every day, children and young people enter care due to family breakdown, neglect, or other difficult circumstances. As a foster carer, you can offer stability, support, and a brighter future.

Who Can Become a Foster Carer?

You don’t need special qualifications to become a foster carer. What matters most is that you’re compassionate, committed, and have a spare room in your home. We welcome carers from all walks of life — whether you’re single, married, retired, working, or renting your home.

You can foster in Bedfordshire if you:

• Have time, patience, and resilience to support a child
• Are over 21 years of age
• Have a spare bedroom
• Are in good health

You can foster whether you are:

• Single, married, or in a relationship
• Working full-time or part-time
• Renting or owning your home

Support for Foster Carers in Bedfordshire

We believe that outstanding carers deserve outstanding support. When you foster with us you’ll receive:

• 24/7 professional support
• A generous, tax-free fostering allowance
• Ongoing training and development opportunities
• Your own dedicated social worker
• Access to peer support groups and local events

We’re with you every step of the way — from your first enquiry to your first placement and beyond.

How to Become a Foster Carer in Bedfordshire

Becoming a foster carer is a straightforward process, and our team will guide you throughout.

Step 1: Initial Enquiry
Contact us to discuss your interest and ask any questions.

Step 2: Home Visit
We’ll arrange a visit to learn more about you and your home environment.

Step 3: Formal Assessment (known as the Form F Assessment)
A detailed assessment is carried out, including background checks and training.

Step 4: Approval Panel
Your application is reviewed by an independent panel.

Step 5: Start Fostering
Once approved, you’ll be matched with a child and begin your fostering journey.

Timeline: Most people complete the process within 4–6 months.

Our friendly team is always happy to answer your questions and help you understand what to expect.

Fostering Allowance in Bedfordshire

Foster carers in Bedfordshire receive a competitive, tax-free allowance.

• Weekly payments typically range from £472 to £985 per child depending on experience and placement type
• Additional payments for specialist placements
• Tax exemptions mean you keep more of what you earn

You’ll also receive:

• Paid training
• Holiday allowances
• Additional support payments

Why Foster in Bedfordshire with Family Works Fostering?

Family Works Fostering is an innovative and dynamic fostering agency that specialises in providing first class foster placements to children and young people aged between the ages of 0 to 18 of either gender.

We have an outstanding team of carers and staff and together as a team we provide the highest quality of care and support for children and young people.

Benefits of working with us

• Competitive and generous fostering allowances.
• Support and availability 24 hours/day, 7 days/week, including crisis support, advice and guidance for foster parents, from our social workers.
• On-going training, both face to face and E-training.
• Local foster carers support groups.
• Regular supervision with your allocated supervising social worker.
• Individual tailored foster child support plans.
• Foster parent mentoring services.

Areas We Cover in Bedfordshire

We support foster carers across Bedfordshire, including:

• Bedford
• Luton
• Dunstable
• Leighton Buzzard
• Biggleswade
• Sandy

No matter where you’re based, our team is here to support you.

Start Your Fostering Journey Today

There are children in Bedfordshire who need someone just like you. If you’re ready to offer a child the chance to feel safe, supported, and loved — we’re ready to support you in return.

Contact us today to find out more about fostering in Bedfordshire.

Frequently Asked Questions