Did you know, there are more than 9,000 homes needed for children in care? Sadly, this is because there are record numbers of children in this situation, with the highest levels in 30 years.

So, what does it take to become a foster carer?

One particular requisite is plenty of time on your hands, which means you can give a child your undivided attention. Although you don’t need to be home full-time, you will need to be flexible and emotionally available for a foster child.

Other requirements include plenty of energy, 100% commitment, and, absolutely essential- a sense of humour. Fostering is extremely rewarding but is also very challenging, and demands good levels of resilience.

A warm, empathetic and caring nature also come top of the list.

If you’re considering fostering, you might also be wondering if you get paid, and how much. After all, bringing up a child can be extremely expensive, especially in today’s world. The good answer is yes, you do get paid weekly, and you also get to enjoy generous tax breaks. Most foster carers pay little or no tax, and receive upwards of £360 a week.

This weekly allowance is for both for you and the child, and depends on the age and needs of the child.

You can find out more about allowances here.