New Foster Carers
Fostering can be the most rewarding career you will ever have, as well as the most challenging. At Channels & Choices, we provide Outstanding therapeutic fostering services in Kent, combining comprehensive support, exceptional training, and financial rewards that recognise your commitment.
Why Choose Fostering with Channels & Choices?
We offer more than a fostering service. You will become part of a therapeutic community where teachers, social workers and therapists work together.
Industry-Leading Rewards
A professional career structure that financially rewards you as you train and develop in the role.
- £532 – £632 per week for each child you care for
- 22 nights paid respite per year
- Extra allowances including holidays, uniforms, birthdays etc.
Exceptional Support Network
Exceptional support from experienced professionals who truly understand the challenges you face.
- Access to an on-call worker 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year
- Access to our in-house multi-disciplined Therapy Team
- Regular supervision from very experienced qualified Social Workers
- Regular support groups run by a designated social worker and therapist
Integrated Therapeutic Model
One of the only Therapeutic Fostering services in the UK to have our own School (offering both Primary and Secondary education) and in-house Therapy team. Everything connects seamlessly to support each child’s healing journey.
Expert Training & Development
Learn from the country’s leading experts in therapeutic fostering and child development.
- Fantastic training opportunities with some of the country’s top experts
- Professional development that advances your career
- Financial progression as you train and develop
- Access to the Therapeutic Parenting Programme
Your Journey to Becoming a Foster Carer
We’ve made the process clear, supportive, and designed to set you up for success from day one.
Initial Inquiry & Discussion
Get in touch with our friendly team to learn more about fostering. We’ll answer all your questions, discuss what fostering involves, and help you understand whether it’s the right path for you and your family.
Home Visit & Assessment
One of our experienced social workers will visit your home to understand your family dynamics, motivations for fostering, and living environment. This is a relaxed, supportive conversation — not an interrogation. We’re here to help you succeed.
Skills to Foster Training
Complete our comprehensive pre-approval training programme covering child development, attachment theory, trauma-informed care, safeguarding, and practical parenting strategies. Training is delivered in manageable sessions that fit around your life.
Full Assessment & Checks
We will complete a thorough assessment including a home visit from a qualified social worker, DBS checks, references and medical checks. This ensures the safety of the children in our care while identifying your strengths and how we can best support you.
Fostering Panel & Approval
Your application will be presented to our independent fostering panel who will recommend approval. Once approved by our agency decision maker, you’ll officially become a Channels & Choices foster carer. Congratulations!
Welcome a Child into Your Home & Ongoing Support
We’ll carefully match you with a child whose needs align with your skills and family situation. For every new child in placement, a one-off payment of £300 will be made as a settling-in fee.
Throughout your placement, you’ll receive continuous support, regular supervision, ongoing training, and access to our full therapeutic team.
Total Timeline: 4–6 Months
From your first inquiry to welcoming a child into your home, the journey typically takes 4–6 months. We work at a pace that suits you, ensuring you feel confident and fully prepared every step of the way.
Who Can Foster?
Fostering is open to a diverse range of people. You might be surprised to learn you could be the perfect foster carer.
You Can Foster If You:
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Are 21 or overNo upper age limit
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Have a spare bedroomOwn or rent your home
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Are single, married, or in a partnershipAll family structures welcome
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Have or don’t have children of your ownBoth scenarios work well
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Work full-time, part-time, or not at allFlexible arrangements possible
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Are from any background or faithDiversity strengthens our service
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need experience working with children?
No. While experience is helpful, it’s not essential. We provide comprehensive training and ongoing support. What matters most is your commitment, empathy, and willingness to learn.
Can I foster if I work full-time?
This depends on the type of fostering and the child’s needs. Many carers successfully balance fostering with work, especially with older children who attend school. We’ll work with you to find arrangements that suit your circumstances.
What financial support will I receive?
We offer industry-leading allowances of £532–£632 per week per child, with potential annual earnings up to £69,000 for specialist carers with two placements. Foster carers also benefit from tax relief through the Qualifying Care Relief scheme.
How long do placements typically last?
Placement lengths vary depending on each child’s needs. Some placements are short-term (weeks to months) while others become long-term arrangements lasting years. We’ll consider matching around your circumstances.
What ongoing support will I receive?
You’ll receive 24/7 on-call support, regular supervision from qualified social workers, access to our therapy and education teams, ongoing training, peer support groups, and comprehensive practical assistance whenever needed.
Download Your Free Foster Carer Guide
Get our comprehensive guide to becoming a foster carer. Learn about the application process, what to expect, and how we support you every step of the way.
What matters most is your commitment to a child’s wellbeing, your capacity to provide a safe and nurturing home, and your willingness to work as part of our therapeutic team. If you have patience, empathy, resilience, and genuine care for vulnerable children, we want to hear from you.