Foster care demand rises as carer numbers fall in England
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Amy Burns of Bristol entered foster care at 14 years old, and she credits her foster parents with providing the stability and love that allowed her to succeed in education and build a career.
She shared her story at the launch of a new government campaign to recruit more foster carers in England.
The number of foster carers has decreased by 12% since 2021, while the need for foster placements continues to grow, particularly in areas like Bristol and Somerset, where the number of children in care rose 35% over seven years. Experts believe foster care provides better outcomes for children than residential care, but the shortage of carers is forcing more young people into children’s homes.
The government plans to add 10,000 new foster care placements through a campaign promoting regional fostering hubs and more flexible arrangements. Children and Families Minister Josh MacAlister stated that people may now be able to consider fostering at different stages of life and on a part-time basis. Wes, a single parent and foster carer from South Gloucestershire, encouraged others to apply, saying concerns about challenges should not deter them.
Wiltshire Council also supports recruitment efforts and notes that each new foster carer saves the government money, as residential care costs approximately £318,000 per year.
