If you smoke or use e-cigarettes (vape), you can still apply to become a foster carer, but there are guidelines that apply across all fostering agencies – and they’re there to protect the health of the children we care for.
Here’s how smoking or vaping may affect your fostering journey:
✅ You can foster children aged 5 and over
❌ You cannot foster children under the age of 5
❌ You cannot take on Parent & Child fostering placements
❌ Children with respiratory conditions may not be matched with you
🚭 Smoking or vaping must take place outside the home (e.g., in your garden)
🚗 Smoking in a car with a child present is illegal and strictly prohibited
When you begin your fostering application, your assessing social worker will talk with you about any smoking or vaping habits you may have. Being honest and open helps us assess suitability safely and fairly.
You will not be judged or disqualified solely for smoking or vaping. The focus is always on the safety, health and wellbeing of the child – and our team is here to guide you through everything you need to know.
Second-hand smoke has been proven to be harmful, especially to children whose lungs and immune systems are still developing. Even with e-cigarettes, although less harmful than traditional smoking, the long-term effects are still being studied – so we adopt a cautious approach.
Because of this, we ask all foster carers not to smoke or vape inside the home or in front of children. This isn’t just about health – it’s also about role modelling. Research shows that children are more likely to pick up smoking habits if a parent or carer smokes.
We want every child to grow up in an environment where healthy choices are encouraged, and where they can look up to those around them.
If you’re thinking about quitting smoking, we’re here to support you. It’s not easy – but you’re not alone.
In fact, around 60% of UK smokers want to quit, and many are successful with the right support. If you're interested, we can point you towards resources such as:
We believe in supporting carers to be their best – for themselves, and for the children in their care.
At Wholistic Fostering, we welcome applications from people of all ethnicities, faiths, family structures and backgrounds – including renters, single people and those with health conditions. Smoking doesn’t disqualify you from making a lasting difference.
What matters most is your ability to provide a safe, nurturing, and stable home for a child.
✅ Try our quick Can I Foster? tool
📞 Or get in touch for a friendly chat – we’re happy to answer your questions.
