Fostering teenagers is often overlooked in favour of younger children, yet they are at an important stage in life as they are trying to navigate identity, independence and emotional growth. Many have experienced trauma, neglect or even family breakdown and without the right support, these experiences can shape their adult lives in the wrong ways.
Fostering a teenager means offering stability, guidance and giving them a sense of belonging during a time when they need it most. Teenagers need to feel wanted, not just placed. Including them in family decisions, celebrating their achievements and respecting their need for space can make a world of difference.
Seeing Beyond the Behaviour
Teenagers in care may act out, become withdrawn or may challenge boundaries but these behaviours often come from pain and trauma, not just defiance. As one of our foster carers Natasha puts it:
“People see the behaviour, not the pain underneath it. Young people have been let down enough. Be the one who doesn’t let them down again.”
These words reflect the heart of fostering teenagers, that it takes compassion, patience and the ability to see beyond the surface.
Common Myths About Fostering Teenagers and The Reality
“Teens are in care because they’ve done something wrong.”
Most teenagers enter care due to circumstances beyond their control. This could be due to neglect, abuse, parental illness or addiction. They need support, not judgment.
“All teens in foster care have behavioural issues.”
Many teenagers are simply trying to find their place in the world and within a family. With patience, consistency and care, they can flourish.
“Teens are too old to influence positively.”
Teens are still growing and learning every day. One caring adult can change their life massively.
Positives of Fostering Teenagers
Fostering teenagers comes with many unique and rewarding benefits. Unlike younger children, teens are more independent and able to manage their own basic needs, which can make it a bit easier for foster carers to work with. Their lives often revolve around school, hobbies and friendships giving them a routine that foster carers can support.
As a foster carer, you can be the positive role model a teenager needs. By teaching them essential life skills like budgeting, cooking and self-care, you can help prepare them for adulthood. Most importantly, fostering a teenager gives you the chance to help break cycles of trauma. Many teenagers in foster care go on to achieve incredible things, like attending university or eventually even becoming foster carers themselves. Your support could be the turning point that helps them believe in their future.
Support You Will Receive
Fostering a teenager is a powerful way to make a difference, but you’re never expected to do it alone. We are committed to supporting our foster carers, so whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, you’ll have access to:
- One-to-one sessions with your dedicated Supervising Social Worker
- A support group specifically for foster carers who are looking after teenagers to connect with other carers.
- ‘Out of hours’ support for when you need help outside the usual times
- A budding scheme to guide newly approved foster carers
- The Birmingham Foster Carers Association (BFCA) which is a registered charity run by carers, for carers
Training and Development
We believe that our foster carers deserve the highest quality training and guidance to help them provide quality care. That’s why we offer a comprehensive free training programme and regular support groups to help you grow your skills and confidence. Some of the training opportunities are:
- 3-day ‘Skills to Foster’ training to prepare you for your new role
- An induction programme, supporting you through your first year of fostering
- Foster care development to help deepen your skills and experience
- 85 online courses available anytime
- Training scheduled around school hours
Financial Support
In addition to training and emotional support, we also recognise the financial commitment involved in fostering. That’s why we offer a competitive financial package that reflects the value of your role. Our financial support includes:
- Weekly allowance per child (based on age)
- 28 days paid holiday per 12-month period
- Additional payments for birthdays, Christmas or other religious festivals
- Support for uniforms for any clubs
- Extra payments for placements taken outside normal office hours
Ready to Make a Difference?
If you’re ready to make a lasting impact in a young person’s life, fostering a teenager could be one of the most rewarding decisions you could make. You don’t need to have all the answers. What matters most is your willingness to offer stability, patience, and a safe space where a young person can feel valued and supported.
If you would like to find out more about fostering teenagers call our friendly team today on 0121 303 7575, or enquire online.
