Fostering in Derbyshire

01/09/2026

27/08/2026

💙 You’re not on your own when you foster.

From training and your own social worker to ongoing advice, support groups and a wider fostering community, there’s support around you throughout your fostering journey.

Find out more about the support available to foster carers, read this article 👉 https://fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk/news-blog/2026/support-for-foster-carers-youre-not-on-your-own

Thinking about fostering? Foster for East Midlands Councils can answer your questions.

📞 03033 132 950
🌐 fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk

24/08/2026

✨ A wonderful first gathering for the children of our foster carers ✨

🥰 We hosted the very first group created especially for children who share their homes with young people in our care.

🎖️ They play such an important role in fostering and we wanted to recognise their contribution while providing a space where they can meet other young people who understand what life in a fostering household is like.

Held at County Hall, we welcomed foster carers' own children, including birth children, adopted children and children supported through a Special Guardianship Order.

🖌️ It was a lovely afternoon, giving them the opportunity to chat about the things they enjoy, the challenges they may face and the unique experiences that come with being part of a fostering family.

🍎 They also enjoyed fun activities including pottery painting, bracelet making, face painting, snacks and refreshments.

🩵 A huge thank you to everyone who came along and helped make the afternoon such a success. We’re already looking forward to bringing the group together again in the coming months and welcoming even more fostering families.

💻 If you’d like to know more about becoming a foster carer and the support on offer visit: https://ow.ly/sEYr50ZENmj

24/08/2026

"What if I don't qualify?"

It's one of the most common questions we hear.

Many people assume fostering isn't for them because they rent, have pets, work, are single, or don't have children of their own.

In reality, there isn't one perfect foster carer.

The best way to find out if you could foster is simply to ask.

Don't rule yourself out before you've had the chance to explore what's possible.

Your enquiry could be the beginning of something life-changing for both you and a child who needs you.

💛 Count yourself in! Book an information event and learn how to get started: https://fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk/events/

21/08/2026

Fostering: What is Staying Put? 💛

When a young person in foster care turns 18, they don’t necessarily have to leave their foster home.

Staying Put is an arrangement that allows a young person to continue living with their foster carer after their 18th birthday, while they take their next steps towards independence.

Our foster carers can continue to provide a safe and familiar home, alongside guidance, encouragement and practical support as young people develop the skills and confidence they need for adult life.

Financial arrangements are agreed between the young person, their foster carer and the local authority, with the young person contributing where appropriate to help prepare them for independent living.

Staying Put is a valued way our foster carers continue to support young people beyond childhood and help them prepare for their future.

If you’ve thought about fostering and would like to find out more, contact Foster for East Midlands Councils on 03033 132950 or find out more here 👉https://fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk/news-blog/2026/staying-put-foster-care-supporting-past-18-into-adulthood/

10/08/2026

"Could I REALLY be a foster carer?" Yes! Count yourself in, not out 💛

Many people think fostering isn’t for them, but the truth is, it might be more possible than you think.

Fostering means providing a safe, stable and supportive home for a child who can’t live with their family right now. It could be for a short time or longer, but it always makes a lasting difference.

You don’t need to be “perfect” — just caring, patient, and willing to offer a safe place where a child can feel supported and valued.

There’s training, guidance, and ongoing support every step of the way.

👉 Find out more about what fostering really is:
https://fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk/about-fostering/what-is/

💛 Count yourself in, not out.

06/08/2026

Fostering: Support can continue beyond 18 💙

There can sometimes be a misconception that young people have to leave their foster home when they turn 18. However, for some young people, their fostering journey can continue through Staying Put.

Staying Put allows a young person to remain living with their foster carer after they turn 18, providing ongoing stability, encouragement and support as they begin adult life.

Our foster carers play a valued role in helping young people prepare for independence. They continue to provide guidance, reassurance and practical support as young adults develop important life skills, such as managing money, cooking, maintaining a home, making decisions and building confidence for the future.

Having a trusted adult and a familiar home environment can make a real difference as young people take their next steps into adulthood.

Find out more about Staying Put here 👉 https://fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk/news-blog/2026/staying-put-foster-care-supporting-past-18-into-adulthood or call Foster for East Midlands Councils on 03033 132 950

03/08/2026

"What types of fostering can I do?" 💛

There isn’t just one way to foster: different children need different kinds of support at different times.

You could offer short-term care, helping a child while plans are made for their future, or provide long-term fostering for children who need stability and a permanent home environment.

Some carers provide respite or short breaks, giving children and families extra support when they need it most. Others may care for siblings together, helping brothers and sisters stay connected.

There are also more specialist roles, such as caring for children with additional needs or supporting a parent and baby together in the same home.

Whatever type of fostering you offer, you’ll receive full training and ongoing support from your local authority team.

Find out more here:
🌐 https://fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk/about-fostering/types/