Welcome to Sheffield Fostering Service

We are the Fostering Service at Sheffield City Council.

We know that becoming a foster carer is a big deal. In fact, it might be one of the most important things you’ll ever do.

That's why we're here beside you every step of the way, with all the training, advice, and 24/7 support you need to be a brilliant foster carer.

Fostering one child won’t change the world, but for that child the world will change.

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An adult and young person are sitting close together on a sofa. They are both laughing

Contact our friendly team

There is no such thing as a silly question. Really - ask us anything!

Becoming a foster carer is a huge step, and most people have lots of questions about every aspect of it. Right down to the tiniest detail.

Whether you're new to fostering or have years of experience elsewhere, we are here to answer all of your questions without any judgement.

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A smiling adult wearing a headscarf sits in parkland. In their arms they are cuddling a child who is looking upwards with a slight smile.

Request an information pack

Our information pack is full of useful information that could help you decide if fostering is right for you.

It's also good to share with family and friends, to help them understand why you want to become a foster carer.

We can post a copy to you, or email a digital version. Just let us know which you'd prefer!

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An adult sits on a climbing frame in a playground between two children, who are playing with the adult’s hair. They are all laughing.

Make an enquiry

If you are over 21 and have a spare bedroom, you can foster!

If you make an enquiry, you'll simply get more information to help you make a decision. There's no commitment or obligation to begin the formal application process. 

We'd love to hear from you, wherever you are in your fostering journey.

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Two adults and a young child are taking a selfie in a park. All are smiling happily.

Book an information evening

If you're ready to learn more about what it's really like to foster with us, why not come along to one of our friendly online information evenings?

You'll hear from our foster carers and social workers, learn about the application process, and be able to ask any questions.

There's no pressure to apply then and there - or at all! It's just a great way to find out more.

Real fostering stories

Why do our foster carers do what they do? And what does this mean to the children and young people they care for?

Our wonderful foster carers and young people explain how foster care has changed their lives.

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Navy blue background with white text that reads Ofsted Good Provider. Above Ofsted there are three yellow stick people growing in size

Ofsted

Sheffield Local Authority Children's Services were inspected by Ofsted in September 2023.

Our overall rating was 'Good' and the experiences and progress of children in our care was rated ‘Outstanding’.

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New Family Social member badge. Family in rainbow letters on a black background is surrounded by the words Supporting our lesbian, gay, bi & trans + families

New Family Social

We are a proud member of New Family Social. This charity supports us to be as LGBTQ+ inclusive and friendly as possible.

We welcome and encourage all families to foster with us.