The government aims to create up to 10,000 new fostering places in England with an £88 million package to tackle a 12% drop in foster carers over the past decade.

A new national fostering rulebook aims to cut bureaucracy and stabilise placements, supported by a major recruitment campaign and better digital information. Updated guidance will include diverse households, reflecting modern family life and work patterns. Strengthened regional fostering hubs will enhance recruitment, training, and placements for consistent support nationwide.

The Fostering Network Chief Executive Sarah Thomas stated, “We have called for a strategy to address foster care’s challenges for a long time. Retaining foster carers is as crucial as recruiting them, making the lack of focus on retention and financial support disappointing.”