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Is there an age limit for fostering in the UK?

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Despite common belief, there is no upper age limit for fostering a child. As long as you are over the age of 21, and you are physically and mentally healthy enough to care for a child, your age will not affect your eligibility to foster. 


Age limit for foster parents


The only age restriction for people wanting to foster is that they are over the age of 21. The legal minimum age is 18 years old, however, most independent fostering agencies and local authorities will require you to be at least 21 years old. There is no upper age limit for fostering although it’s important to note that foster parents need to be fit enough to take care of any child, ranging from babies to teenagers. This is because the age preference for your foster child may not always be available so, as a foster carer, you’ll need to be able to demonstrate a capability of taking care of children of all ages. 

As part of the assessment process, your independent fostering agency or local authority will assess both your physical and mental wellbeing to determine your eligibility to foster, including a medical with your GP to help decide if you are fit enough to care for children. However, don’t let health concerns prevent you from applying to be a foster carer – there are very few conditions that would prevent you from being able to foster. This is part of a series of foster care requirements that you will be assessed for, including having a spare bedroom, and having a permanent residence in the UK. 

Age of our foster carers 


Here at Capstone Foster Care, the average age of our foster parents is 53. However, our foster parents’ ages range from early 20s right the way up to late 70s – showing that fostering can really be great career path for anyone of any age. 
Thought you were too old, or too young, to foster, and interested about the application process? Our friendly team are on hand to help. Get in touch with a member of our supportive team today to find out more about the fostering journey. 

Thinking of fostering?

If you’ve got any questions or would like to find out more about fostering with Capstone, fill out the form below.
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Find out more about fostering with Capstone.

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GET IN TOUCH

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Download our helpful guide to becoming a foster carer with Capstone Foster Care.