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Posted 11 August, 2026

Foster Carer

Sparks Fostering
Leicester, ENG, GB Full Time

Job Description

Have a spare room and a big heart? You could transform a child’s life – and your own.

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We’re Sparks Fostering, rated Outstanding for leadership by Ofsted, and we’re looking for people across England who can provide a safe and supportive home to a child or young person.

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You don’t need special qualifications — just a willingness to learn, a nurturing heart, and space in your home.

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What We Offer:

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Pay & Financial Support

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  • £500–£1000 + per week per child (current average fee is £750/week, including for newly approved carers)
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  • £1,500 approval bonus after panel
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  • £200 loyalty bonus every year you remain approved
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  • Two weeks paid respite per year
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  • Two weeks bridging payments to support gaps between placements
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  • Generous tax relief for foster carers
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Grants & Extras

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  • Up to £300 child welcome grant for each new placement
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  • Up to £450 per child per year for birthdays & religious festivals
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  • Holiday grant up to £300 twice yearly per child
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  • £20+ per week saved for each child, paid to them when placement ends
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Training & Ongoing Support

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  • Weekly 1:1 support from your social worker
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  • Additional weekly support per child
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  • Matching support from a dedicated support worker
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  • £50 per month training & events allowance
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  • Specialist training, first aid & de-escalation training
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  • Therapy, counselling & tuition for children fully funded
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What You’ll Do:

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As a foster carer, you’ll care for a child who cannot live with their birth family. Your role is to provide stability, safety, and love — we provide everything else.

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You’ll attend training, work with a social worker, and be part of a supportive fostering team.

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Requirements:

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  • A spare bedroom in your home
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  • Age 21 or older
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  • Based in England
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  • Willing to undertake a background check and assessment process
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  • Commitment to caring for children in need
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Next Steps:

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Interested in finding out more?

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- Apply here on Reed

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We’d love to hear from you — even if you're just exploring your options.