If you’re thinking about fostering but worried about what it means for your job, you’re not alone. Can you work and foster at the same time? The honest answer is: yes, in many cases — but it depends on the type of placement, the age of the child, and your working arrangements.
This guide walks you through the practical realities of fostering alongside employment, and helps you work out what might be possible in your situation.
Is There a Rule That Says You Can’t Work While Fostering?
No. There is no rule that says foster carers must give up work. Many carers across Norfolk and Suffolk successfully balance fostering with employment — particularly part-time work, self-employment, or flexible roles where they can manage their own schedule.
What fostering does require is that adequate childcare is in place for any child in your care when you are working. This isn’t just about hours — it’s about the consistency and suitability of that care, especially for children who may have experienced trauma or instability.
What Affects Whether You Can Keep Working?
The key factors are the type of placement you take and the child’s individual needs:
Age and school attendance
If you are fostering a school-age child (typically 5–16), your working hours during school time are generally more manageable. You’ll need to cover pick-ups, school holidays, and any appointments. If the child is under school age, the childcare requirement is much more significant.
Placement type
Some placements require more of your time and presence than others. Emergency placements, children with complex trauma histories, or therapeutic placements often require a carer to be available and present far more consistently. In these cases, full-time employment is rarely compatible. Short-term placements of school-age children are often the most compatible with part-time work.
Your specific working pattern
Part-time work, school-hours work, term-time employment, and flexible or self-employed roles are all generally more compatible with fostering than full-time, inflexible employment. If your job requires you to travel, work evenings, or be on call at unpredictable times, these factors will be considered during your assessment.
What Childcare Is Acceptable?
When you are working, any childcare arrangement for a child in your care must be approved. Not all childcare providers can automatically look after a looked-after child — your supervising social worker will guide you on what’s acceptable. Generally:
- Registered childminders and nurseries are typically suitable for younger children
- After-school clubs can work for older children
- Family members can provide care, but this needs to be agreed with your social worker first
- Ad hoc or informal arrangements are usually not acceptable
The Financial Picture: Fostering Allowances vs Employment Income
One reason many carers choose to reduce or leave employment when they start fostering is the financial support available through fostering allowances and fees. Foster carers receive a tax-free allowance to cover the child’s costs as well as a fee that recognises their skill and commitment.
For some people, this income replaces a salary entirely. For others, it supplements part-time work. Your social worker can help you understand the financial picture for your specific circumstances before you make any decisions about employment.
Talking to Your Employer About Fostering
You are not legally required to tell your employer that you are a foster carer, though many carers choose to. Telling your employer can be beneficial if:
- You want to request flexible working arrangements
- You need to attend training, court appearances, or placement meetings during working hours
- You need to take time off at short notice for an emergency placement
Some employers offer enhanced support for staff who foster under “Fostering Friendly” workplace policies. It’s worth checking whether your employer has signed up to this scheme.
How to Have the Conversation at Assessment
During your fostering assessment, your assessor will explore your employment situation in detail. Be honest about your working hours, flexibility, and what childcare you would use. There are no right or wrong answers — the goal is to find a fostering arrangement that works for you, the child, and the agency.
If you’re ready to find out more, contact Solace Fostering for a no-obligation conversation. We support carers throughout Norwich, Ipswich, Great Yarmouth, Bury St Edmunds, and across Norfolk and Suffolk.
Can you work full time and foster?
Full-time employment is difficult to combine with fostering, particularly for younger children or complex placements. Part-time, flexible, or term-time work is much more compatible. Your assessment will explore what works for your situation.
Do foster carers have to give up their job?
No. Many foster carers continue to work, particularly in flexible or part-time roles. Some choose to reduce hours or stop working altogether, supported by fostering allowances and fees.
What childcare can I use for a foster child when I’m at work?
Any childcare arrangement for a looked-after child must be approved by your supervising social worker. Registered childminders, nurseries, and after-school clubs are generally suitable. Informal or unapproved arrangements are not acceptable.