GI OMHTYP Foster With Step By Step Fostering With Us

Open My Home to a Young Person Fostering With Us

Fostering is about more than offering a place to stay. It’s about opening your home and your heart to help a child or young person feel safe and supported. At Step by Step, we see fostering as a partnership, and we’re with you every step of the way. If you have the time, empathy and a spare room, you could be the hero a child or young person needs.

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Why Foster with Step by Step?

Choosing the agency you foster with is just as important as choosing to foster. Step by Step is a local charity with strong roots in the South of England who specialise in supporting older teenagers and young adults. We do this with warmth, respect and professionalism. Our Fostering agency continues this support but to a wider extent, supporting children and young people, 0-18.

Here’s what you can expect when you foster with Step by Step:

Local, experienced support teams who are always just a phone call away
Tailored training and guidance that grows with you, whether you’re brand new or experienced
An inclusive fostering community with events, forums and peer support
A sense of purpose and partnership, knowing your voice is heard and valued
A generous allowance that recognises the importance of your role as a foster care

What Makes Step by Step Different?

We’re not a private fostering agency.

We’re a not-for-profit charity that puts children and young people - and the people who care for them - first.

We offer:

Consistent, dedicated support for every carer
A deep understanding of the challenges children and young people face today
Specialist knowledge in working with young refugees and care-experienced children and young people
A genuine belief that fostering changes lives - including yours

It's Not Just Giving - It's Gaining

Fostering is one of the most enriching things you can do. The sense of purpose. The connection. The opportunity to help a child or young person move forward with confidence. Carers often say they get back as much as they give.

Fostering offers:

A renewed sense of meaning and fulfilment
Stronger ties with your local community
A chance to use your life experience to make real change
Powerful memories and lasting relationships
And most importantly the chance to make a difference to the lives and outcomes of looked after children and young people.

Do I need previous experience to become a foster carer?

Not at all. Many of our foster carers are new to the role. If you have empathy, patience and a stable home environment, we’ll provide the training and support you need.

Am I too old to foster?

Age is not a barrier. Some of our most successful carers are in their 50s, 60s or even 70s. What matters is your energy, attitude and ability to provide a nurturing home.

What support will I receive?

You’ll have a dedicated social worker, 24/7 on-call advice, dedicated out of hours support, access to training, and opportunities to connect with other carers through forums and events.

Will I receive an allowance?

Yes. We provide a competitive fostering allowance to cover living costs, as well as recognising the commitment and time you invest.

What if I’m already fostering elsewhere?

You can [transfer to Step by Step]. We make the process as smooth as possible and are happy to talk it through with you confidentially.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

We know fostering is a big decision. That’s why we’ve made it easy to find out more - in your own time and in your own way.

Download our free fostering guide - filled with practical information and personal stories
Complete our short enquiry form - no pressure, just a friendly conversation to help you explore the role

Already fostering with someone else? See how you can transfer to Step by Step.

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