Indigo Fostering is an exciting new independent fostering agency committed to providing exceptional care and support for children and young people, enabled by our dedicated foster carers. We are actively recruiting compassionate, dedicated individuals to join our team and help shape the future of fostering. If you are passionate about making a difference in children's lives and want to be part of a dynamic, forward-thinking fostering agency, we want to hear from you.
Overview
As a Foster Carer with Indigo Fostering, you will provide a safe, nurturing, and stable home environment for children and young people who are unable to live with their birth families. This role is vital in offering love, care, and support to help children thrive and reach their full potential. We are looking for individuals or couples who are committed to making a positive impact on the lives of vulnerable children.
Duties
* Provide a safe, caring, and stable home environment for children and young people in foster care
* Support the emotional, social, and educational development of children in your care
* Work collaboratively with social workers, schools, and other professionals to meet the needs of the child
* Attend training, support groups, and review meetings as required
* Maintain accurate records of the child's progress and report any concerns to the supervising social worker
* Promote the child's identity, culture, and individuality, ensuring their voice is heard
* Support contact arrangements with birth families where appropriate
Eligibility Requirements
To become a foster carer with Indigo Fostering, you must meet the following criteria:
* Be at least 21 years old (no upper age limit)
* Have a spare bedroom in your home for the exclusive use of the foster child
* Be a UK resident with the right to work in the UK
* Have no criminal convictions that would prevent working with children (subject to an Enhanced DBS check)
* Be in good physical and mental health to meet the demands of fostering
* Have the ability to provide a safe, stable, and nurturing environment
* Be available to care for a child full-time (though some flexibility is considered for those with part-time work)
* No formal qualifications are required, but experience working with children or young people is advantageous
Essential Skills
* Empathy, patience, and resilience to support children with diverse needs
* Strong communication and interpersonal skills to work with children, families, and professionals
* Ability to manage challenging behaviour and provide consistent boundaries
* Commitment to promoting the welfare and development of children
* Flexibility and adaptability to meet the changing needs of children in care
* Willingness to engage in ongoing training and personal development
Work Environment
* Home-based role, with fostering responsibilities taking place primarily in your own home
* Regular visits from a supervising social worker to provide support and guidance
* Attendance at meetings, training sessions, and support groups (generally remote)
* 24/7 support available from the Indigo Fostering team
Key Performance Indicators
* Positive feedback from children, supervising social workers, and professionals regarding the care provided
* Successful completion of mandatory training and attendance at required meetings
* Timely and accurate submission of records and reports
* Positive outcomes for children in your care, including progress in education, health, and emotional well-being
Remuneration
* Foster carers receive a weekly fostering allowance, which varies depending on the child's age and needs (details provided upon application)
* Additional allowances for specific expenses as agreed with the agency
* Tax exemptions and benefits applicable for foster carers in the UK
* Full details of financial support will be discussed during the assessment process
Additional Information
* Strict adherence to confidentiality and data protection regulations at all times
* We value diversity and welcome applications from individuals and couples of all backgrounds, with a focus on promoting and maintaining an inclusive environment
* Full training and ongoing support provided to all foster carers
* Fostering is a rewarding but demanding role, requiring a long-term commitment to the children in your care
Application and Documents
To apply to become a foster carer with Indigo Fostering, we will request the following:
* Completed application form and consent to checks (following your registration of interest)
* Confirmation of identity and right to work in the UK (e.g., passport, driving licence, or other acceptable ID)
* A satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check for all adults in the household (we will arrange this during the assessment process)
* Two references, including one from your current or most recent employer (if applicable) or a professional/educational reference
* Proof of address (e.g., utility bill or council tax statement)
* Health assessment (completed during the fostering assessment process)
* If renting, written permission from your landlord or housing association to foster
* Confirmation of valid home insurance (or willingness to obtain fostering-appropriate insurance)
Successful applicants will be invited to begin the fostering assessment process, which includes home visits, interviews, and training.
To discuss this opportunity further or request an application form, please email
Job Type: Permanent
Work Location: In person