The fostering community in England is facing an urgent crisis. Statistics released in December from the Department for Education reveal a worrying decline in the number of approved foster carers, with a drop of 2% over the past year alone. This marks the second consecutive year of decline, leaving over 83,000 children in need of care with fewer placements available. In response to this pressing challenge, Step by Step is calling on people who are ready to step up and help bridge this critical gap.
The Crisis in Context
The report, covering the period from 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2024, paints a stark picture:
- 84,190 children were in care, an increase from the previous year.
- Despite this rising need, the number of approved foster carers has dropped to just 43,905.
- Over 6,000 foster carers left their roles, citing reasons such as retirement, personal commitments, or feeling unsupported.
- The demand for specialist care—for children with complex needs, unaccompanied asylum-seeking children, and teenagers—continues to rise.
These figures highlight a growing imbalance between the number of children requiring safe, stable homes and the capacity of foster services to meet their needs.
Be the Hero: Step Forward to Foster
At Step by Step, we believe every child deserves a safe and nurturing environment where they can thrive. Through our programmes, we provide young people at risk of homelessness with the stability they need to build brighter futures. These young people are true heroes in their own right, showing remarkable resilience and courage as they overcome challenges that most can only imagine.
But even heroes need someone to stand beside them. Just as Alfred supported Batman, and Aunt May fostered Spider-Man, behind every young person with the strength to face hardship is someone who believes in them, someone who cares. Foster carers are those people—not the caped crusaders, but the steady, dependable allies who offer support, love, and guidance when it’s needed most.
Fostering is not about rescuing young people; it’s about recognising their potential and giving them the environment to grow and succeed. It’s about stepping up to support the heroes of tomorrow.
Why Foster?
Fostering is a profoundly rewarding experience. It allows you to:
- Make a life-changing difference: Offering stability to a young person allows their inner strength and potential to shine.
- Support young heroes: Foster carers play a vital role in enabling young people to overcome adversity and achieve their dreams.
- Gain personal fulfilment: Many foster carers describe the experience as one of the most meaningful parts of their lives.
Who Can Foster?
We understand that taking on the role of a foster carer is a significant commitment. That’s why Step by Step offers extensive support and training every step of the way. We welcome carers from diverse backgrounds and situations, including:
- Single people, couples, and families
- Homeowners or renters
- People with or without parenting experience
What matters most is your willingness to provide a safe, supportive, and loving environment for a young person who has already shown great strength and determination.
How Step by Step Supports Foster Carers
Becoming a foster carer can feel daunting, but you’re never alone. Step by Step offers:
- Comprehensive training: To prepare you for every aspect of fostering.
- Round-the-clock support: Our dedicated team is always here to guide and assist you.
- Financial support: We provide generous allowances to ensure you can meet the needs of the young person in your care.
- A community of peers: Connect with other foster carers and share experiences, challenges, and triumphs.
Answer the Call
The need for foster carers has never been more urgent. By stepping forward, you can support a young person who has already shown remarkable resilience and courage. You can be the steady hand that helps them realise their full potential and achieve their goals.
If you’ve ever considered fostering, now is the time to act. Click here to learn more about the process and how you can get involved. Together, we can address this crisis and ensure no young person is left without the care and support they deserve.
Be the Hero Behind the Hero. Foster Today.