Types of fostering

You can make a big difference to a child’s life in Sutton by providing a loving home.

Become a foster carer

Once you have registered to become a foster carer and completed the application process, we’ll work with you to find suitable fostering for you.

We currently have a shortage of carers for:

• young people aged 11 to 17
• sibling groups
• children with disabilities

Our fostering options

Short-term

Short-term foster placements can last for an overnight stay or up to two years. Short-term carers offer children a stable and secure home while decisions about the child’s future are made.

Children may return home to their birth family, be cared for by other family members or carers, or move on to an adoptive family.

Long-term

Long-term foster carers care for children unable to live with their birth families. Children stay with their long-term carers until they reach adulthood.

Respite and support care

Help a family at crisis point or a foster carer who needs a break by taking care of a child or young person for a short period of time. This is mainly weekends, school holidays and in emergencies.

Short breaks for disabled children

Short break carers offer children with disabilities regular, planned and ongoing support at weekends and during school holidays. They work closely with parents to ensure children receive care that meets their specific needs.

Register your interest in fostering

If you're interested in fostering, we want to hear from you.