Job Reference: LCSFOST26
Lothian Childcare Solutions are supporting Scottish Adoption and Fostering to find amazing foster families for children across Scotland.
The Opportunity
Could you make a lasting difference to a child’s life? We are looking for compassionate and committed people to become foster carers and provide safe, stable and nurturing homes for children and young people who cannot live with their birth families.
We need carers who can support children on a short break, short-term, long-term, emergency or permanent basis. Every child is different, and we welcome enquiries from people of all backgrounds, cultures, identities and family circumstances.
Right now, more foster carers are needed. Without enough families to meet demand, some children may be placed further from their communities, and some brothers and sisters may be unable to live together. By becoming a foster carer, you can help children stay connected to the people and places that matter most to them.
As a foster carer with Scottish Adoption and Fostering, you’ll receive training, ongoing support and guidance from experienced social workers every step of the way.
What Fostering Involves
As a foster carer, you will:
- Create a safe, nurturing and consistent home where a child can feel secure and cared for.
- Support their emotional wellbeing, learning and development, helping them recognise their strengths and reach their potential.
- Help maintain important relationships with family, friends and other people who matter to them.
- Work in partnership with professionals, including social workers, education staff, health professionals and others involved in the child’s care.
- Provide everyday care and encouragement, from school runs and appointments to routines, activities and family life.
- Help build confidence and independence, giving children opportunities to enjoy positive experiences and develop a sense of belonging.
Fostering can look different from one child to another. Some children may need a short-term safe place to stay, while others may need a longer-term family environment. Whatever the circumstances, you will never be expected to do it alone.
About You
We’re looking for people who:
- Have a genuine commitment to helping children and young people feel safe, valued and supported.
- Are patient, compassionate and resilient, with the ability to build trusting and meaningful relationships.
- Are willing to understand the impact that trauma and difficult experiences can have on children and to develop therapeutic approaches to parenting with our support.
- Have the time, flexibility and commitment needed to make fostering work as part of family life.
- Are open to learning, reflecting and working as part of a professional team.
- Have a spare bedroom that can provide a child or young person with their own space.
You don’t need to be a parenting expert or have previous fostering experience. What matters most is your commitment to children, your willingness to learn and your ability to provide a safe, stable and nurturing home.
Why Foster with Scottish Adoption and Fostering?
Fostering can be one of the most rewarding commitments you make but we know it can also be challenging. That’s why we believe you should feel as supported, valued and cared for as the children you welcome into your home.
Families across the Central Belt choose Scottish Adoption and Fostering because we offer:
Therapeutic Support from the Start: our therapeutically informed assessment and support approach helps you understand each child’s needs and gives you practical guidance throughout your fostering journey.
A Relationship-Based Approach: we work alongside you, building an open and trusting relationship where you feel listened to, respected and supported.
Child Centred Care: we put children at the heart of everything we do. Through play, connection and everyday experiences, we help you build strong and meaningful relationships with the children in your care.
Support for the Whole Family: fostering affects everyone in your household. That’s why we offer lifelong, in-house therapeutic support for every member of your family.
A Team Around You: you won’t be expected to do this alone. We work collaboratively with you and the wider professional network around each child, so you have people to turn to when things feel difficult, as well as when things are going well.
What We Offer
As a foster carer with Scottish Adoption and Fostering, you’ll receive:
- A comprehensive training and development programme
- Dedicated support from your fostering team
- Therapeutically informed support throughout your fostering journey
- Regular supervision and opportunities to reflect on your experiences
- Access to long-lasting, in-house therapeutic support for your family
- 24/7 support
- Fostering allowance and financial support package
- Peer support and opportunities to connect with other foster carers
Take The First Step
You don’t need to have all the answers before you get in touch.
If you’re wondering whether fostering could be right for you and your family, we’d love to have an informal conversation.
Have an informal conversation with our fostering team. No commitment, no pressure.
We’ll answer your questions, talk honestly about what fostering involves and help you decide whether it’s something you’d like to explore further.
Get in touch today to start the conversation.
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