Sibling Foster Care
What Is Sibling Fostering?
Sibling fostering is all about giving brothers and sisters a safe and loving home where they can stay together. Unlike other types of fostering that involve caring for only one child, sibling fostering focuses on keeping families together and alleviating some of the stress of an already difficult time. The sad reality is that separating siblings can deeply affect a child’s happiness and sense of security, often bringing feelings of anxiety, loss, and isolation.
We aim to keep brothers and sisters together whenever it is in the child’s best interest to do so. Having their brother or sister by their side gives them a sense of comfort and stability, knowing they’ve got each other to lean on. As a foster carer, you can make a huge impact on two people’s lives, not just by providing a home but also by keeping that family connection strong.
If you’ve got the space and the heart to open your home to siblings, it’s one of the most rewarding things you can do.
What are the benefits of Sibling Foster Care?
Keeping siblings together can make all the difference for kids going through tough times. Here’s why:
-
Siblings are each other’s safe space - they lean on each other for comfort and strength when things get hard.
-
Knowing their brother or sister is close by helps children to feel calmer and more secure.
-
Siblings share a bond like no other. They “get” each other’s story and help each other feel understood.
-
Homes that keep siblings together often feel more stable, giving kids a better chance to do well.
-
It eases the sense of loss, helping kids adjust to foster care without feeling completely alone.
-
As a foster carer, you’re not only providing a home, but you’re keeping family ties strong when they need it most.
Am I eligible to be a carer?
Becoming a foster carer means offering a stable and caring home for children who need it most. To ensure each child’s well-being, foster carers need to meet some essential criteria.
You need to be:
-
At least 21 years old
-
A UK resident
-
In good physical and mental health
-
Have a safe, clean, and comfortable living space with a spare bedroom for the foster child
It is also really important that you have the right character. Our carers are kind, patient, friendly, dedicated, and mature enough to handle the demands of the role.
How to become a Sibling foster carer?
Speak with Us
The first step is to get in touch! We’ll have a chat to learn more about you, answer your questions, and explain what sibling fostering involves. This is your chance to find out if fostering is the right fit for you.
Home Visit
Next, we’ll arrange a visit to your home. Don’t worry - it’s not about perfection! We’ll check that your home is safe and has enough space for siblings, and we’ll talk more about what fostering looks like day-to-day.
Application Form
If you’re ready to move forward, you’ll fill out an application form. This gives us all the important details about you, your family, and your background so we can get the ball rolling.
Checks and References
As fostering is such an important role, we’ll carry out thorough checks, including a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check, and speak with your references. This is to make sure everything is in place to support you and the children you’ll care for.
Fostering Training
Before you welcome siblings into your home, you’ll attend our fostering training sessions. These are designed to give you the tools, knowledge, and confidence to provide the best care possible.
Panel Interview
The final step is meeting our fostering panel. This is a chance for us to discuss your application and for you to share why you want to foster. If approved, you’ll officially be ready to start your journey as a sibling foster carer!
Allowance and benefits
When you choose to foster siblings, you’ll receive benefits and allowances designed to cover the costs of care and recognise the incredible work you do. We’re proud to offer a competitive rate that ensures you’re fully supported in providing the best possible care.
Your allowance covers essentials like food, clothing, and household bills to meet the children’s needs, as well as additional expenses for any special requirements the children might have.
Alongside your financial allowance, you’ll have access to regular training and round-the-clock support from our team to help you feel confident and prepared.
If you’d like to learn more about how your allowances and benefits are calculated, we’re always here to talk it through!
Other types of fostering
Respite Fostering
Respite fostering is q great option if you can’t commit full-time but still want to help. These short-term placements give kids a safe home while their foster carers take a break. With a 14-day respite allowance for foster carers, respite carers are always in demand.
Parent and child fostering
‘P&C’ fostering involves a parent and child living with a foster family. It helps young parents without a stable home learn to care for their baby, with foster carers providing guidance and support.
Therapeutic fostering
Therapeutic fostering supports children with trauma or complex needs. It requires patience, understanding, and extensive training, but the rewards are life-changing.
Still have questions about fostering?
Choose a date and time on the calendar below, and one of our fostering advisors will give you a call to discuss any questions you might have.