Every year, young people arrive in the UK alone, seeking safety after leaving behind conflict, persecution or danger. They arrive without parents or family to support them — but they are not without hope.
Role description
As a foster carer for unaccompanied asylum-seeking children, you will provide a safe, stable and supportive home to a young person who has arrived in the UK alone.
These young people are under 18 and have come to the UK without a parent or guardian, often after experiencing significant disruption, loss or uncertainty. Most are aged 16–17 and are taking important steps towards independence.
This role is about offering more than just accommodation. It’s about helping a young person settle, feel safe, and begin to rebuild their life with confidence.
Responsibilities
As a UASC foster carer, you will:
- Provide a safe, welcoming and stable home environment
- Support a young person with day-to-day routines and independent living skills
- Encourage participation in education, training or employment
- Help them learn English and adapt to life in the UK
- Offer emotional support, patience and reassurance
- Work alongside social workers, education providers and other professionals
- Support attendance at key appointments (including legal or health appointments)
- Respect and support the young person’s cultural, religious and personal identity
Criteria
You don’t need to have previous experience of fostering or supporting asylum-seeking children to apply.
We are looking for people who are:
- Caring, patient and understanding
- Open-minded and respectful of different cultures and experiences
- Willing to learn and develop new skills
- Able to offer consistency, encouragement and guidance
- Emotionally resilient and able to support a young person with complex experiences
- Aged 21 or over with a spare bedroom
We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, including those who are single, working, retired, renting or homeowners.
How we suport you
We understand that fostering an unaccompanied young person can feel like a big step. You will receive full support throughout your fostering journey.
This includes:
- Comprehensive pre-approval training
- Ongoing support from a dedicated social worker
- Access to specialist advice on trauma-informed care and cultural awareness
- Peer support from other foster carers
- Regular training and development opportunities
- A fostering allowance and financial support
You will never be expected to manage challenges alone — we are here to support you every step of the way.
FAQs
Do I need experience of working with asylum-seeking children?
No. Full training is provided, and you will be supported by experienced professionals throughout.
What age are the young people?
Most unaccompanied children are aged 16–17, so the role often focuses on preparing them for independent adulthood.
Will there be language barriers?
Some young people will be learning English, but support is available, and communication develops quickly over time.
What kind of experiences might they have had?
Many young people have experienced trauma, loss or uncertainty. Training and ongoing support will help you understand and respond to their needs.
How long will a placement last?
This can vary, but many placements support young people as they transition into independence.
What difference can I make?
A huge one. You could be the person who helps a young person feel safe, supported and hopeful for the future.
Take the next step
If you’re ready to make a meaningful difference in a young person’s life, we’d love to hear from you.
Enquire today to find out more about becoming a foster carer for unaccompanied asylum-seeking children.
