Many people assume that the only families who can foster are typical married couples. That is not always the case, though. While it is true that many married couples decide to foster children, so do single women and men.
Being a man shouldn’t stop you, either. Even though the woman is generally seen as the stereotypical caregiver, there are plenty of male foster parents who provide children with a safe space, giving them a sense of stability in otherwise confusing times. You shouldn’t let your gender or relationship status affect whether or not you want to help raise those who need it most.
Of course, there are challenges in every role you take on, and as a single male, you need to understand how it will affect your daily life. If you are interested in becoming a foster parent as a single male, here’s what you need to know.
Single People Can Foster
You should know that there are no limitations because you are a single parent or male. There are some hoops you need to jump through, though, just like any other foster family. For example, you must:
The spare bedroom is so that the foster child has an area to sleep and a safe space for privacy. If you are over 21 and live in a home that has a spacious spare bedroom, the chances are you will be accepted for fostering. Take a look at thefca.co.uk if you are interested in taking on this role.
You Can’t Work Full-Time
Some difficulties face single foster parents, including the fact that you cannot work full time. As you don’t have a partner able to work full time either, this can become financially stressful. You should consider what your career means to you and whether you can afford to foster before going ahead with the process. Remember, though, that foster parents are given a weekly allowance for the work they do.
Many Male Foster Parents Care Solely for Male Kids
Many single male foster parents decide with their social worker to solely care for male children, at least at first. That is usually because you can provide a male child with a good role model. Also, not every male is comfortable looking after teenage girls without prior experience.
If you wish to care for all kinds of children, that is still an option. You work out with the social worker what is best for you.
Being a Single Foster Carer is Hard Work
Whether fostering as a single man or woman, being a single foster carer is hard work. You must provide a caring, loving home that ensures the foster child has a place of stability during a time of unrest. It’s a full-time job and requires someone with lots of patience, dedication, and genuine compassion. If you think you have what it takes, there’s no reason to avoid fostering just because you live in a single household as a man.
