In the North West of England, a pressing issue has emerged: a significant shortage of fostering carers. This decline poses serious challenges for children in need of stable and loving homes. The shortage has been attributed to various factors, including the impact of the pandemic, the cost of living crisis, and changing family dynamics.
As of March 2025, there were 42,190 fostering households in England, marking a 7% decrease since 2021. The North West region, encompassing areas such as Lancashire, Greater Manchester, Cheshire, Liverpool, Wigan, Salford, and Cumbria, has been particularly affected. This decline has led to increased placements of children away from their local communities, disrupting their sense of stability and belonging.
This blog post aims to explore the current statistics on fostering carer shortages in the North West, the impact on children in care, the steps to become a foster carer, the importance of community involvement, and a call to action for individuals and families to consider fostering.
Current Statistics on Fostering Carer Shortages in the North West
The shortage of fostering carers in the North West is a significant concern. Recent data indicates a net loss of almost 3,000 foster carers in England over a three-year period, with more carers leaving than new ones joining.
Specifically, the North West faces a shortage of 1,330 foster carers, the second-highest number in the country.
This decline is not isolated to the North West; it reflects a national trend. The number of fostering households in England has decreased for the fourth consecutive year, despite significant investments aimed at recruitment and retention.
The North West region has experienced a 5% decrease in fostering households over the past year.
This shortage is particularly concerning given the rising number of children in need of foster care. As of March 2025, there were 56,345 approved foster carers in England, a loss of 720 foster carers over the last year, according to thefosteringnetwork.org.uk.
The Fostering Network estimates that 5,000 more fostering families are needed in England to ensure all children can live with the right family for their needs.
Impact of the Shortage on Children in Care
The shortage also places additional pressure on existing carers, leading to burnout and, in some cases, carers leaving the system altogether. This cycle exacerbates the crisis, making it even more challenging to provide stable and loving homes for all children in need.
The shortage of fostering carers has profound implications for children in care. With fewer available carers, children are increasingly placed away from their local communities, leading to a loss of familiar support networks and community ties. This disruption can have lasting effects on their emotional and psychological well-being.
Moreover, the lack of sufficient carers means that sibling groups are often separated, depriving them of the comfort and support of growing up together. The Fostering Network highlights that “more and more children are placed further from home, more children are placed in residential [care], or sometimes unregulated placements.”
The shortage also places additional pressure on existing carers, leading to burnout and, in some cases, carers leaving the system altogether. This cycle exacerbates the crisis, making it even more challenging to provide stable and loving homes for all children in need.
Steps to Become a Foster Carer and the Support Available
Becoming a foster carer is a rewarding journey that requires dedication, compassion, and a willingness to make a positive impact on a child’s life. In the North West, individuals and families interested in fostering can follow these steps:
- Initial Inquiry
Contact your local council or an independent fostering agency to express your interest. Fostering Ltd. has a team of experienced social workers that cover the whole of Lancashire, Greater Manchester, Cheshire, Liverpool, Wigan, Salford, and as far North as Cumbria.
- Preparation Course
Attend a preparation course on fostering, which provides essential information about the fostering process and the responsibilities involved.
- Assessment
Undergo a comprehensive assessment process, including background checks and interviews, to ensure suitability for fostering. This process can take up to eight months to complete.
- Approval
Once assessed, your application will be reviewed by a fostering panel, which will make a recommendation regarding your approval.
- Training and Support
Upon approval, engage in ongoing training and receive continuous support to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to care for children effectively. Fostering Ltd. offer comprehensive and ongoing training for all of our valued foster carers.
It’s important to note that fostering agencies and local councils may have specific requirements and processes. We require applicants to be over the age of 21, have a furnished spare room for a child, and have the right to permanently live in the UK.
The Importance of Community Involvement in Addressing the Shortage
Addressing the shortage of fostering carers requires a collective effort from the entire community. Local organisations, schools, healthcare providers, and community groups can play a pivotal role in supporting fostering initiatives.
Community involvement can take various forms, such as raising awareness about the need for foster carers, providing support to existing carers, and creating a welcoming environment for children in care. By fostering a culture of care and support, communities can help ensure that every child has the opportunity to grow up in a stable and loving environment.
Moreover, community engagement can help dispel myths and misconceptions about fostering, encouraging more individuals and families to consider this rewarding path. Organising local events, workshops, and information sessions can provide valuable insights and support to prospective carers.
Individuals and Families Considering Fostering
The need for fostering carers in the North West is urgent. Children in care deserve the same love, stability, and opportunities as those raised in their birth families. By opening your heart and home, you can make a profound difference in a child’s life.
If you’re considering how to become a foster carer in North West England, take the first step by reaching out to your local council or to a member of our team at Fostering Ltd.
Remember, fostering is not just about providing a home; it’s about offering a child the chance to thrive, to feel valued, and to build a brighter future. Your involvement can help reverse the current shortage and ensure that every child in the North West has the opportunity to grow up in a safe and nurturing environment.
