“Will I need to ask permission for everything?”
It’s totally understandable. Fostering involves a child or young person who is looked-after by the local authority, so it can feel like you might need to phone someone for every little decision — “Can they go to a friend’s house?”, “Can they go on a school trip?” etc.
But here’s the reassuring reality.
Carers are trusted to make everyday parenting decisions
Fostering isn’t about being micromanaged. It’s about giving children a safe, stable, normal home life.
The guidance on delegated authority (which governs decision-making in foster care) makes clear that day-to-day decisions should normally be delegated to the foster carer wherever appropriate.
So, you will be able to decide things like:
- Routines: bedtimes, screen time, what the child wears
- Hobbies, after-school clubs, school trips (within agreed guidelines)
- Haircuts, purchasing clothes, everyday health appointments
- Holidays within the UK, day trips, social activities
The aim is that children do not feel stymied by bureaucracy but can enjoy childhood just like their peers. Whilst it is of course practical and sensible for day-to-day decisions to be made by the foster carer, if it is planned that children might return to live with their parents, we would advise sensitivity when it comes to certain things, for example, if a child has always had their hair cut in a certain way, it might be nice to consult with parents if the child wants a big change-it’s always wise to put yourselves in their shoes, and think about the things you’d like to know about.
Support and clarity from the outset
Before a child is placed, we help ensure you’ll have clear information about which decisions you can make, and which may require additional input. There is always an initial meeting that takes place when a child first joins your family, called a Placement Meeting (or shortly thereafter) and this is where a Placement Plan is drawn up, which records who can make what decisions.
So, you’ll know:
- What decisions you can confidently say yes to
- What you’ll need to check or consult on
- Who to contact if you’re uncertain
You’re never left to guess — you have backing, supervision and a framework.
