Why is fostering so important?

A foster carer offers love, support and a secure home to children and young people who, for whatever reason, cannot live with their own families.

Fostering can be challenging and stressful - a child may have suffered abuse and neglect or may have been caught at the centre of a family crisis. However, fostering can be rewarding too.

Foster carers touch the lives of each and every child they welcome into their home, whether it's for a matter of days or years. By committing their time and their love, foster carers give children - and often whole families the time and space to rebuild their lives.

Foster care is much more than looking after someone else's child in your home. Fostering has changed and foster carers are now recognised as skilled professionals. Foster carers work in partnership with Plymouth City Council, other agencies and the child's family. They have a central role in helping children achieve the best possible outcomes in life.

To recognise the importance of foster carers, the Council offers a career ladder with four payment levels depending on skills and experience.