Life changes. Circumstances change. Sometimes, foster carers step away -and that’s okay. But if you’ve been a foster carer before, whether you resigned or were deregistered, you might be wondering: Can I come back?
The answer is yes – and at F5 Foster Care, we’ve successfully helped many former and deregistered foster carers re-enter fostering, bringing their skills, empathy, and experience back to children who need them most.
We’ve seen first-hand that life changes -circumstances change, priorities shift -and sometimes fostering has to be put on hold. But we’ve also seen something else: with the right support, encouragement, and practical help, many former foster carers do come back. And when they do, they often bring even more strength, experience, and empathy than before.
We’ve successfully worked with people who thought their fostering days were over, helping them return to the role and once again make a life-changing difference for children.
Step 1: Understand De-registration and Why It Happens
A de-registered foster carer is someone who was previously approved to foster children but whose approval has ended. This can happen for different reasons:
- Resignation – Many carers choose to step away voluntarily, typically giving 28 days’ written notice.
- Agency Decision ( De-registration ) – Sometimes agencies decide to de-register a carer if they feel they can no longer meet the needs of children in their care.
- Change in Circumstances – Life events like health issues, family needs, or relocation can make fostering impossible at that time.
Importantly, none of these automatically stop you from returning.
Step 2: Decide If the Time Is Right
Ask yourself:
- Has my situation changed since I left fostering?
- Do I now have the time, space, and stability to care for a child?
- Am I ready to commit to the role again?
If you have a spare bedroom, are over 21, and live in the UK long-term, you’ve already met the basic criteria to reapply.
Step 3: Contact a Fostering Agency That Supports Returners
At F5 Foster Care We’ll:
- Talk through your history – understanding why you left and what you’d need this time around.
- Explain the re-approval process – what paperwork, checks, and training are required.
- Outline the support and allowances – so you know exactly what to expect financially and practically.
Step 4: Complete the Re-Approval Process
Re-approval is similar to the original assessment process but may be quicker if you’ve fostered before. It usually includes:
- Updated background checks (DBS, local authority)
- Refresher training
- Health and safety home check
- Updated references
We’ll guide you through each stage, ensuring it’s as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Step 5: Benefit from Better Support This Time
We’ve listened to why many carers leave – and changed how we work to keep you supported:
- Dedicated social worker who knows your story and is there when you need them
- Wellbeing and respite support to help prevent burnout
- Ongoing professional development to keep your skills sharp
Step 6: Start Making a Difference Again
Once you’re approved, you can begin taking placements – and immediately start making an impact. Whether it’s keeping siblings together, supporting a teenager through exams, or helping a young child feel safe for the first time, your experience means you can change lives from day one.
We’re Ready When You Are
Returning to fostering is not just possible – it’s needed. The West Midlands urgently needs carers for children of all ages, especially teenagers and sibling groups.
If you’ve fostered before, you already know how rewarding it can be. We can help you come back.
Contact F5 Foster Care today and speak to Zulekha Ali about restarting your fostering journey.
The door is open – and we’ll walk through it with you.
