Top Fostering Myths Answered

Over the years our experienced fostering team have been asked lots of questions about who can actually become a foster carer. Below we share the most common myths which many people believe would stop them fostering a child in need. Help us de-bunk these myths and find more loving, stable homes for vulnerable children across Scotland who need them.

Find out more information about becoming a foster carer with Aberlour today here.

1) I must own my property
No, you don’t need to own your house or flat, you can live in rented accommodation. All we ask is that you have a spare room available for your foster child to make their own.

2) Single people can’t foster
No, we have many single parent families who foster with Aberlour. All we ask is that you are compassionate and dedicated to helping a child who has experienced trauma.

Read Liz and Sarah’s story to find out more>>

3) I need to be in my 40s to foster
We consider foster carers from the age of 21+ as long as your health and wellbeing allow you to look after a lively child.

4) I need qualifications to foster
You don’t need any qualifications. We value life experience and full training will be provided. This training will take place at the start of your fostering journey and once approved you will have the opportunity to undertake further training to widen your skills.

5) I can’t work
You may be employed. All we ask is at least one foster carer must be available within the home to provide full-time care. We provide financial support to allow a foster carer to focus their time and skills on their child.

6) LGBT+ families can’t foster
No, we welcome people who can bring different views, skills and life experience. All we ask is that the foster child is loved, supported and encouraged to grow and flourish.

7) I must have had my own children or have childcare experience before I can foster
No, you don’t need parental experience to foster. We understand that through our own life experiences everyone can learn the skills to enable them to foster. All we ask is that our foster carers are keen to receive the training and support on offer to allow them to provide a safe and loving family environment for the child to thrive.

8) I can’t foster if I have a disability
As long as your health and wellbeing allow you to be able to care for a child, a disability shouldn’t prevent you from fostering.

9) Single males can’t foster
No, we accept applications from everyone who can offer a loving stable home for a child.

10) I can’t foster if I have my own children
No, many of our foster families have their own children. We will carefully match a foster child to the needs of your whole family.

Read Lynda’s story to find out more>>

11) Foster Agencies Don’t Assess Ethnic Groups
No, just as society is made up of people from all different backgrounds so are the children that need a loving home and care. We want to have the widest selection of people to help give us the best match between carer and child.

12) I can’t have any pets in my house if I wish to foster
Yes, you can have pets and they will be included in as a part of your assessment to foster.

Would you like to find out more about fostering a vulnerable child? Contact our friendly team today.