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Can I Be a Foster Carer If I’m Single?

If you're single and wondering whether you can become a foster carer, the answer is simple: yes. Being part of a couple is not a requirement. What matters most is your ability to provide a safe, stable and nurturing environment for a child or young person who needs support. At Step by Step, we work with a wide range of carers, including many who live alone. In fact, single foster carers often bring unique strengths to the role, offering one-to-one attention and a focused, consistent presence.

What Step by Step Looks For in Foster Carers

You don’t need to have a partner, a big house, or prior experience in social care. What you do need is the willingness to open your home and heart to a child or young person who deserves a fresh start.

A safe, stable home

A spare room and a welcoming space where a child or young person can feel safe are key. Whether you live in a flat or house, what matters is the emotional environment you create.

Patience, empathy, and life experience

Children and young people in care have often faced significant challenges. Your life experience, resilience and ability to listen without judgement can be transformative.

A willingness to learn and grow

We provide training and support to help you feel confident in your role. You bring the care; we bring the guidance.

Why Single Foster Carers Make Amazing Heroes

Being a solo carer doesn’t mean doing it alone. It means bringing your full attention, your routines, your values – and your presence – into a child or young person’s life.

Many of our single carers build strong, lasting bonds with the children and young people they support. With fewer household distractions, solo carers often offer a sense of stability that is deeply valued by children and young people navigating a complex world.

Support You’ll Receive from Us

We understand that taking this step as a single person can feel daunting. That’s why we offer comprehensive support, every step of the way.

Practical and emotional guidance

You’ll be matched with a dedicated member of our fostering team who will provide regular visits, practical advice, and be available whenever you need to talk.

Financial support and training

Foster carers receive a generous allowance to help cover living costs, and we offer expert training that equips you with the skills and confidence you need.

You’re never alone – you’re part of a team

From peer networks to round-the-clock support, we make sure you always feel connected and capable.

Thinking About Fostering as a Single Person? Let’s Talk.

If you’re single and thinking about fostering, we’d love to speak with you. You don’t have to commit right now. Just start the conversation.

Kelly Headen

AUTHOR: Kelly Headen

Head of Fostering and Supported Lodgings

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NEWS

Supported Lodgings First to Be Ofsted Accredited

Supported Lodgings Host Young Person Kitchen 2

Step by Step’s Supported Lodgings has become the first service of its kind to achieve Ofsted accreditation. We are now the largest Supported Lodgings provider in the UK, as well as being considered the authority in the field.

Supported Lodgings Host Young Person Kitchen 2
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