A common question asked by prospective foster parents looking to join evolve Therapeutic Fostering is whether they need a spare room to foster.

The answer to this question is yes, you do need a spare bedroom to be eligible to foster in the UK.

Likewise, one of the first questions asked by the evolve team to prospective foster parents is ‘Do you have a spare bedroom?’.

Unfortunately, if the answer is no, you are not eligible to foster in the UK.

Why is a spare bedroom necessary in order to foster?

The reason why a spare bedroom is a necessity in order to foster is because every child needs their own space, regardless of whether the child is in care or not.

For looked after children it is also about providing a safe space where they are protected from potential harm or disruptive behaviours, because of previous trauma, whilst ensuring any birth children in your home are also able to have their own space.

Some looked after children have also experienced neglect, so ensuring they have their own space will help them adapt to their foster family and create a further sense of safety.  

Whilst every family environment is different, we cannot make compromises around the need of a spare bedroom.

Is a spare bedroom a requirement for fostering agencies within the UK?

Yes.

The need for a spare bedroom for those looking to foster is not only an evolve requirement, but one for anyone fostering across the country.

The requirement for a spare room is set out by the Fostering Services National Minimum Standards to ensure the child or young person in your care has a safe, private, quiet and secure space.

You can read more about the Fostering Services National Minimum Standards here.

What if I plan to foster siblings?

If you do plan on fostering siblings then they may be allowed to share a room together.

This will ultimately depend on the age and gender of the siblings, whether they have experienced previous trauma or neglect,  and will be down to a social worker’s discretion.

It’s always best to act under the assumption that every young person will require a room of their own.

What if my circumstances change?

We know that circumstances can change.  

Should you not be eligible when you enquired initially, but you have found your circumstances have changed, such as moving to a bigger house or your birth child leaving the nest, feel free to get in touch with a member of the evolve Therapeutic Fostering team again.

There is no obligation or expectation at the initial stages of enquiry and so it is always worth finding out as much information as you can.

Deciding to foster is a huge decision and needs to be at a time that is right for everybody.