If you can't find an answer to your question about fostering in Essex, you might find it here.
I am fostering with another agency. Can I transfer to fostering with Essex County Council?
Yes - we'd love to hear from you. Please contact us for a confidential chat to find out about our excellent local training and support.
Can I work while I foster?
It depends on how flexible your employer is. Some of our foster carers work. The main carer needs to be available for meetings, training and for children before and after school and during school holidays.
If you work full time, providing short breaks for children with disabilities at weekends might especially suit you.
How long does it take to be approved to foster?
We aim to complete the process in 5 months of your application. If you are transferring from another fostering agency, it's quicker.
Do I have to own my own home to foster?
No - you can rent or own a property. If you rent, you must tell your landlord you will be fostering.
What do I do if I look after someone else’s child?
Private fostering is any arrangement made to care for a child under 16 (or under 18 if the child is disabled):
- for more than 28 days, and
- without involving a local authority, and
- by someone who is not a close relative.
Close relatives include parents, step-parents, grandparents, brothers, sisters, uncles and aunts, whether by blood or marriage. Those who are not close relatives include, for example, cousins, great aunts and uncles, and family friends.
Under the law, you must tell us if you're privately fostering. Call us on 0800 801 530.
If you have another question that's not covered here, please get in touch. We're always happy to answer any question about fostering, or just have a friendly chat.