The Blog Single

Ofsted’s latest data shows a declining number of foster carers in England, with 5,435 mainstream households deregistering in 2021-22 compared to 4,035 approved and still active. This exacerbates an existing shortage, with 18% fewer approved mainstream households than in 2018. Contributing factors are a sharp drop in applications, down 22% for councils and 21% for agencies since 2017-18, and low conversion of initial inquiries to applications (just 6% across both sectors). Two-thirds of completed applications were approved but many were later withdrawn.

Foster carer shortages are deepening in England with one in eight fostering households having quit, and more leaving than joining, over the past year.

The shortage is driven by lack of support, with carers struggling amid the cost of living crisis. Many consider resigning, resorting to cutting back on essentials. Carers report better pay and support from agencies, which now provide 45% of mainstream places, up from 40% in 2018. National recruitment campaign urged.

Friends and family carers increasingly plug gaps, making up 18% of households versus 14% in 2017-18, and caring for 20% of fostered children. They comprised 60% of council approvals last year.

Allegations against carers are increasing, especially emotional abuse. Most come from children, half result in no action, but 30% now referred to panels, up from 26% in 2017-18. Investigations often poorly handled, further driving carers away.

Overall, pressing need to improve carer recruitment, retention and support emphasised in order to increase capacity and provide stability for fostered children. National campaign required alongside better training, pay and conditions. Competition between councils and agencies counterproductive – collaboration needed.