How old are children in care?

Here in Rotherham, we have foster children in our care across a range of ages, from birth to 18. We encourage all our foster carers to be as open and flexible as possible so that we have a better chance of finding a home for everyone. In some cases, a foster child will stay with their foster families even beyond childhood.

Fostering babies and children aged 0-5

Children and babies can come into care as early as a few hours old. It is always our priority to try and place very young children back with their family, however where this isn’t possible they may be placed into long-term foster care. Babies and children of this age will have specific needs - you will receive all the support and training you will need.

Children aged 5-10

Children aged 5 and over will often be fostered long term, where they may stay with their foster family until aged 18 or over. Children in this age group will usually attend school which means their foster carer can work as long as the hours fit with the needs of the child. There is support available within the local foster carer network for daycare during school holidays.

Teens aged 11-16

Teenagers in care have the same needs and emotions as any other teenager and while this can be a challenging time for them, it is when a stable and supportive home can have the biggest impact on their lives. Fostering a teenager can see them through some of their most important milestones such as passing exams and eventually for some, transitioning into their own independent or semi-independent accommodation as they enter into adulthood, creating bonds that last a lifetime.