London has one of the most diverse foster care landscapes in the country. This page lists independent fostering agencies working across all London boroughs and Greater London, so you can compare your options and find an agency that fits your life.
Children in Care Across London
London presents an interesting picture when it comes to children in care. Outer London has the lowest rate of children in care of any region in England, at 45 per 10,000, compared to the national average of 70 per 10,000. Inner London boroughs, however, tell a different story, with significantly higher rates in some of the most deprived areas of the capital.
London saw the most substantial proportional growth in children's home settings in the most recent year of data, at 24%. That growth reflects increasing pressure on the care system in the capital and a genuine need for more foster families across all parts of London.
Fostering in One of the World's Most Diverse Cities
London is unique. Nowhere else in the UK offers the same breadth of cultural, linguistic, and community diversity. For foster carers, that context matters enormously.
Children in care in London come from extraordinarily varied backgrounds. Being placed with a family that understands and reflects a child's cultural identity, language, and community is not just desirable – research shows it leads to significantly better outcomes for children.
If you are part of a particular community, speak a second language, or have strong cultural roots, those are genuine assets when it comes to fostering. Many London agencies actively seek carers from specific communities to reduce the number of children placed far from their own heritage.
Independent Agencies in London – What to Look For
London has a high concentration of independent fostering agencies. Some are very large national organisations with London offices. Others are smaller, locally-rooted agencies with deep connections to specific boroughs or communities.
Both can offer excellent support. What matters is the quality of the individual supervising social worker allocated to you, the agency's Ofsted rating, and how supported you feel from your very first conversation. Ask about caseload sizes. Ask how quickly phone calls are returned. Ask to speak to an existing carer if possible.
Practical Considerations for Fostering in London
London comes with some unique practical considerations. Space is the obvious one. A spare bedroom in London is a genuine asset, and you do not need to live in a large house. A well-maintained spare room in a flat or terraced house is sufficient, provided it gives a child their own dedicated space.
Fostering allowances in London tend to be higher than in other regions, reflecting the higher cost of living. Independent agencies typically offer more competitive rates than local authorities, though this varies. Make sure you understand exactly what the allowance covers and whether there are additional payments for specific types of fostering.
Who Can Foster in London?
Anyone who is over 21, has a spare bedroom, and has the right to live and work in the UK can be considered for fostering. You do not need to own your home, be in a particular type of relationship, or have a specific professional background.
London is a city where single professionals, retired grandparents, and large families all foster. What every child needs is stability, warmth, and someone who will show up for them consistently. That quality crosses every background.
Types of Fostering Available in London
All fostering types are available across London's agencies. Short-term fostering covers the weeks or months while longer-term decisions are made. Long-term fostering provides a permanent family home. Emergency fostering requires flexibility and readiness for same-day placements. Short breaks fostering provides regular, planned care for another foster family's child.
Parent and child fostering supports young parents alongside their babies, and is particularly relevant in London where young parents may have limited family support networks. Therapeutic fostering provides specialist care for children with significant trauma histories.
Using This Page
The agencies below all work across London boroughs. Compare their Ofsted ratings, check which boroughs they cover, and look at their specialisms. An initial call costs nothing and commits you to nothing.