Becoming a foster carer is your opportunity to change a child's life

Looked after children need kind, patient foster carers to help them heal and reach their full potential. Join hundreds of families and start fostering with Essex County Council. We're only a phone call away.

New foster carers who join us in 2025 will receive a £2000 welcome bonus

We have committed to updating the financial and wellbeing support available. This includes a 16% rise in professional fees, meaning more take-home pay for foster carers. Experience award-winning training and support when you foster with Essex County Council.

Find out more about our increasing professional fees
A man and woman sitting on the living room floor with a small girl (aged under 5). The small girl is sitting on the lady's lap, while the man is leaning over to show her the page of a picture book.
An older man and woman are sitting at a table with young child

What is fostering?

Fostering is a flexible, inclusive role. Find a type of fostering to suit you and your family.

A woman is kneeling before a black sofa with a young child wearing pink pajamas sitting on the sofa and they are sorting through some bits of paper together

Support from Essex

All our foster carers can access expert training, respite care and local support networks.

You're not alone

Foster carer finances

We know foster carers are not motivated by money, but everyone has living costs. We want you to be financially secure.

We’re only a phone call away

We know that fostering is a big decision. We're here to help.

Have a chat with our friendly team about how fostering works. You’re not committing to anything, it's a chance to ask questions and learn more.


0800 801 530

Latest events

Online fostering information event

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Join Essex's foster carers and Supported Lodgings carers at an online information event. They're informal, anyone from your family can join to ask questions.

Online fostering information event

to

Join Essex's foster carers and Supported Lodgings carers at an online information event. They're informal, anyone from your family can join to ask questions.

See more events

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