At Caritas Care, we know that fostering is rooted in relationships. The connections carers build with the children in their care are life-changing, offering stability, hope, and a sense of belonging to those who need it most.
But as the number of children in care continues to rise, the need for foster carers has never been greater.
The numbers tell a powerful story – In March 2024, there were 83,630 children in care in England, a 7% increase since 2020. Of these, nearly 70% (around 57,020) were living with foster families.
Yet during the same period, the number of fostering families fell by 2%, and the number of individual foster carers dropped by 15%.
This growing gap means more children are waiting for the right home (and the right people) to help them to grow and thrive.
What does fostering really mean?
“Fostering is all about creating lasting relationships,” says Rebecca Hughes, Fostering Service Manager at Caritas Care. “The bond you build with a child can make all the difference in their life. It’s about offering love, stability, and the kind of care that helps them feel safe.”
Whether it’s short-term care or a permanent home, our foster carers provide more than just a roof over a child’s head, they offer emotional support, guidance, and unconditional acceptance.
Carolyn, a long-term Caritas Care foster carer, shared, “Every child who comes into our home is treated as part of the family. We give them the space and support they need, and they know we’re always here for them.”
Sue, another dedicated carer, added, “Being a fostering family has brought lots of challenges and rewards — but the rewards far outweigh the challenges. Our lives are richer for having foster children as part of our family and doing life together.”
Caritas Care works tirelessly to recruit, prepare and support carers from all walks of life. We provide thorough training, expert guidance, and a strong community to walk with you every step of the way.
Rebecca explains, “When carers prioritise connection, whether maintaining links with birth families or simply building trust day by day, they lay the foundation for children to grow and thrive. Relationships are at the heart of our mission to give every child the best possible start.”
If you’ve ever considered fostering, now is the time to take the next step. There are children across Lancashire who need safe, supportive homes and the care only you can provide.
We’re here to help you explore fostering, answer your questions, and support you on your journey because fostering is more than a role. It’s a relationship that can change a life.
