I am looking for ...
Become a Step Forward Foster Carer with Foster for Plymouth
Sanctuary Personnel is working in partnership with Foster for Plymouth to recruit foster carers from the local community, including for their Step Forward programme, a specialist route for children transitioning away from residential care into family fostering settings.
This role is all about supporting children who have experienced early trauma to feel supported and safe and if you have the skills, resilience and heart to help a child thrive, then this could be your next step!
Could you offer a nurturing home to a child or young person?
Right now, children across Plymouth and the surrounding areas urgently need safe, stable homes. From babies to teens, including those with disabilities or complex emotional needs, there is a growing shortage of foster carers to meet a wide range of needs.
That’s where you come in.
Whether you’re an experienced foster carer or have worked in education, care, health or support roles, you could already have the skills to make a lasting difference to a child.
What is Foster for Plymouth?
Foster for Plymouth is the city council’s dedicated fostering service. Unlike fostering agencies, it is not-for-profit, meaning that funding goes directly into supporting children and carers within the area.
As a Foster for Plymouth carer, you’ll join a trusted team that knows the local area and understands the specific needs of children in Plymouth. You’ll be supported by experienced professionals who are based locally and committed to helping you succeed.
What is Step Forward Fostering?
Step Forward is a specialist fostering pathway designed for children with more complex needs, including those children and young people who are ready to transition from residential care into a family fostering setting.
When you foster with Foster for Plymouth, you’re never on your own. You’ll be part of a dedicated local team who value your experience and support you every step of the way.
What We Offer You as a Step Forward Foster Carer
We value the expertise of our Foster Carers and ensure they are financially supported in this unique role.
| Payment | Amount |
| Fostering Fee & Allowance | From £840 per week (with potential for more depending on experience and age of child) |
| Holiday, Birthday & Christmas Allowance (up to) | Up to £1,132 per year (depending on age of the child) |
| Discounts | Up to 100% Council Tax exemption
Discounts at local businesses |
What Does a Step Forward Foster Carer do?
- Provide a stable, caring family home
- Support children with complex emotional & behavioural needs
- Help them build trust, skills & independence
- Work alongside social workers, education teams & other foster carers
- Keep clear written records & attend regular meetings
- Parent therapeutically, guided by expert advice
Why Foster with Plymouth?
- Up to 28-nights paid respite each year
- Bespoke, fully funded training to align to your experience
- Ongoing emotional and practical support, including therapeutic input
- Peer support from other local carers and a dedicated support carer
- Access to the Mockingbird model of fostering (extended support networks)
- Membership of The Fostering Network and Blue Light Card benefits
- Regular local events and wellbeing sessions
Could This be YOU?
We’re looking for individuals and couples who:
- Have experience working with or supporting children and young people
- Can provide full-time care (at least one carer at home)
- Have a spare bedroom that can be dedicated to fostering
- Are resilient, nurturing, and ready to learn
- Are willing to register as self-employed
- Preferably holds a driving licence and has access to a vehicle
Ideally, you will have no children under 12 living at home (exceptions may apply depending on the child’s needs)
Start Your Journey with Foster for Plymouth
Becoming a foster carer is a big step and we’re here to guide you through every part of the process.
It starts with a simple conversation. No pressure, no commitment, just honest answers and the chance to explore what fostering could look like for you.
Ready to Change a Life – and Yours?
“Fostering is great. It’s a wonderful job. I’ve loved every minute of my fostering and shall be very upset when I have to give it up” – Wendy, Foster Carer for Children with Disabilities
To begin your journey with Foster for Plymouth, please register below.