Thinking about fostering? Let’s break down some common myths
What you might be wondering
As part of Foster Care Fortnight (11–24 May 2026), we’re taking a closer look at what fostering in Oxfordshire can look like.
Many people assume that fostering is only an option if you own your own home, are in a relationship, or can afford to give up work altogether. Foster carers come from all walks of life and, with the right support, fostering may be an option for more people than they expect.
Often, some of the best carers bring a wide range of life experiences. These real‑world perspectives can be a real strength, helping carers offer understanding, reassurance and stability to a child or young person when life may already feel uncertain and unfamiliar.
Common myths about fostering
Below are some of the most common misconceptions about fostering, alongside the reality behind them. Select a myth below to find out more.
Myth: You cannot foster if you work
Giving up work isn’t a requirement to foster. Many foster carers continue working alongside fostering, and there are different types of foster care that offer varying levels of flexibility. This means fostering can often fit around your lifestyle, job and other commitments.
Myth: Fostering is a long‑term commitment
A lot of foster carers provide short‑term, emergency or respite care. While some carers do offer long‑term placements, there are different options available depending on what works for you.
Myth: You don’t need to own your home to foster
Many foster carers live in rented or council accommodation. What matters most is having enough space to offer a safe, stable and welcoming home.
Myth: You won’t be supported
Foster carers are never expected to manage everything alone. Support and training are available before and alongside fostering, helping carers feel confident, prepared and supported.
Myth: You need previous experience
You don’t need previous experience of working with children to foster. People often bring valuable skills from everyday life, such as patience, understanding and empathy.
Myth: You must be married or in a relationship
You can foster whether you are single, married, in a civil partnership or in a relationship. What matters most is your ability to provide care, stability and support.
Myth: I’m too old or young to foster
People come into fostering at different stages of life. As long as you’re over the age of 21, there is no upper age limit.
What fostering can look like
There’s no fixed template for fostering. People support children and young people in many different ways across Oxfordshire, from short‑term and respite care to longer‑term placements, depending on what is suitable for them and the child.
What’s happening during Foster Care Fortnight
Throughout Foster Care Fortnight, we’ll be sharing more content and stories from local foster carers, as well as people who have been through care, offering an honest look at their experiences and journeys into fostering on our fostering social media channels.
Find out more
If you’re considering fostering, or would like to talk things through, you’re very welcome to come along to one of our events for a relaxed, informal conversation. These are taking place in Bicester, Oxford, Henley‑on‑Thames, Witney, Kidlington and Woodstock.
Have a question about fostering? Call 0800 783 5724 for a friendly, informal chat, or visit our website to learn more.
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We're part of something bigger
Oxfordshire County Council is proud to partner with 19 other local councils in a regional fostering recruitment hub, Local Authority Fostering South East.
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