Fostering in Sandwell

Make a difference in a borough that thrives on community

Sandwell is full of strength, diversity and care — but many children across the borough still need safe, nurturing homes. Whether you're based in West Bromwich, Smethwick, Tipton, or Oldbury, fostering offers you the chance to change a child’s life — and your own.

Why Local Carers Matter More Than Ever

Grounded in real-life experience and genuine care

Best Fostering Agency to become a foster carer in Birmingham and the Black Country for

At Wholistic Fostering, we believe in being present, responsive and personal. We were founded by people with direct experience of the care system, and we bring that insight to every part of our work — from your first enquiry to every placement.

Support that reflects your needs — not a system

Foster care isn’t one-size-fits-all. We tailor our support to your situation, skills and strengths — making sure you feel confident, informed and empowered at every step.

We offer:

Individualised training based on real-world challenges
Local peer support and carer groups in Sandwell
Ongoing guidance built on listening, not ticking boxes

A team that stays by your side

You’ll receive:

Dedicated social worker you’ll get to know by name
24/7 support — because questions and worries don’t wait for office hours
Help with managing allowances, paperwork and expectations
A commitment to relationships, not red tape

Support That Feels Personal — Because It Is

We’re large enough to make a difference — but small enough to make it personal. With Wholistic, you won’t get lost in the system or passed from team to team. You’ll have consistent faces, real relationships, and people who take the time to understand your journey.

Our Approach: Connection, Confidence and Care That Lasts

At Wholistic, we believe great fostering starts with who you are, not just what you can do. That’s why we invest in carers as individuals — building your skills while honouring your values and your voice.

We’re especially experienced in helping children navigate identity, loss, and belonging — including those who’ve faced cultural barriers or social exclusion. Our training includes:

How to support children’s sense of identity and self-worth
Talking openly about culture, difference and belonging
Building trust through consistent, therapeutic care

If you can offer stability, warmth and the willingness to learn, you could become the safe space a child needs — and we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Find the Fostering Role That Fits You

Every child is different. Every carer is too. We’ll help you explore which type of fostering suits your lifestyle, space and capacity.

✅ Short-term fostering
✅ Long-term or permanent care
✅ Emergency placements
✅ Sibling groups
✅ Respite and support placements

A Social Worker discussed fostering with a foster carer

What You’ll Receive as a Foster Carer in Sandwell

You bring care, time and heart. We bring the tools, training and support to back you up.

Weekly allowances from £350–£700 per child
Flexible training — before, during and after approval
One-to-one supervision and regular check-ins
Help accessing schools, services and local networks
Peer groups and reflection spaces for ongoing growth

“It’s not just the training — it’s the way they actually listen. I’ve felt supported, understood and respected from the start.”

Elaine

foster carer in Sandwell

Training That Meets Real-World Needs

We offer all the essentials — and go beyond. Our training includes everything from trauma and attachment to day-to-day care and communication.

Building safe and consistent routines

Promoting emotional wellbeing & resilience

Caring for children of diverse backgrounds

Managing challenging behaviour

Explore Sandwell with the Children in Your Care

Sandwell has no shortage of places where young people can feel connected, curious and calm:

Sandwell Valley Country Park

The Oak House Museum

Coneygre Youth Arts Centre

Forge Mill Farm

Common Questions

Can I foster if I rent or live in social housing?

Yes — as long as you have a spare room and a stable home, you’re welcome to apply.

Do I need professional experience with children?

Not at all. If you have empathy, patience and a willingness to learn, we’ll give you everything else you need.

Am I eligible as a single person or older adult?

Absolutely. Age, relationship status, and background won’t stop you — what matters most is your availability and capacity to care.

Areas We Cover near Sandwell

We work with carers in:

Start Something Life-Changing — Right Here in Sandwell

If you have space in your home and time in your life, fostering could be your next step. We’ll walk alongside you — with practical help, emotional support, and training that reflects real life.

Start Fostering in Sandwell