Fostering in rented accommodation

[nightandthelight]

DH and I are at the very start of the approval process to become FC (first home visit next Friday). Before that takes place we will talk to out landlord about our plans. I was just wondering whether he is allowed to prevent us? I know that they are not allowed to discriminate against children that are legally your own but what about foster children?

A large number of FCs live in council housing so it is possible, however it will be different for a private landlord as there will be conditions on the tenancy set by their mortgage company. If they're mortgage free it may be possible, you should read your contract to see.
Some tenancy agreements will forbid the operation of business on the premises, including working from home, which fostering could be classed as.
It would be advisable to clarify the situation before going further.

Ok thanks Atomic! Will talk to the landlord ASAP :)

The fostering agency/ LA would not consider your application if your landlord isn't supportive as they will need to know your tenancy is stable. They may also require various alterations ( such as safety gates) and will want your landlord to be on board. Foster children can cause a lot of damage - from ripped wallpaper to smashing walls, and your home insurance may not cover it, so you may have to think about that too. I do know a couple of carers who foster in private rented accommodation, but it isn't straightforward ( none of fostering is!)

Thanks Yule, I do have a horrible feeling landlord will refuse :( might have to wait until we own our own home!

You can register with counsel or housing association, usual once you are approved should be able too apply or rent too buy earlier, Most will give you high priority once post approved, 4 bed would be best option of choice.
Advise to register any way., also sound them out previously ask best options. Can still proceed, tell social worker's of your intentions.

Landlord is really enthusiastic :) huge weight off my mind! Thank you so much for all your advice ladies :)

Great news!....I've been talking to a few agencies and most wouldn't entertain me. However, I've got an excellent agency with whom I've started the process based in the North West perpetualfostering.co.uk/
They answered all my questions and I'm looking forward to the skills to fostering training.

Best Wishes
CJ x

Good luck CJ :)