Information for Children and Young People

We know that coming into foster care can feel like a big change — and it’s completely normal to have questions, worries, or mixed feelings.

At Wholistic Fostering, we want every child and young person to feel safe, heard, and supported from day one. That’s why we’ve created two helpful guides just for you — one for children aged 5 to 11, and another for young people aged 11 to 18.

Each guide explains what foster care is, what you can expect, and where to go for help if you need it.

Primary school age boy in foster care wearing a white shirt points to camera

📘 Guide for Children (Ages 5–10)

If you’re between 5 and 10 years old, this guide will help you understand what it’s like to live with a foster family. It’s easy to read, friendly, and full of helpful things like:

What your foster carer and social worker are there to do
How you can keep in touch with the people you care about
What might be different about school, holidays or bedtime
What to do if you’re feeling sad, worried, or need to talk to someone

It’s your guide — just for you — so you always know what’s happening and what support is around you.

👉 Download the Children’s Guide (5–10)

Teenage girl in foster care wearing a denim dress points to camera

📙 Guide for Young People (Ages 11–18)

If you’re between 11 and 18, you’ll probably want a bit more independence — and more information about your choices.

This guide includes everything in the children’s version, plus extra advice on:

Pocket money and your personal allowance
Making decisions about your health and education
What independence means and how to get ready for adult life
Managing money, work, and living on your own in future
Who you can talk to if you have a problem or want to make a complaint

It’s designed to support you through your time in care — and help you feel more in control of your own journey.

👉 Download the Young People’s Guide (11–18)

Need Someone to Talk To?

If you’re ever unsure about something, or just want to talk, you can always reach out to your foster carer, social worker, or your Wholistic Fostering supervising social worker.

No question is too small. We’re here to help you feel safe, listened to, and supported — every step of the way.