Foster Care Statistics UK 2026: Children Waiting for Placements

The numbers tell a stark story. The UK urgently needs more foster carers — and the gap between supply and demand is growing.

Key Statistics

• 83,630 children were looked after by local authorities in England alone in the year ending March 2024 (source: DfE). Early 2025 data shows a slight decrease to 81,770.
• 56,390 children were in foster placements — making fostering the most common form of care (source: DfE, 2024).
• 9,000+ new foster families are needed every year in England alone.
• The majority (75%) of looked-after children are under a care order.
• 35% of children in care are placed outside their home local authority area.

Why There's a Shortage

Several factors drive the foster carer shortage:

• Age demographics — many existing carers are approaching retirement.
• Complexity — children entering care have increasingly complex needs.
• Cost of living — housing costs and the spare bedroom requirement limit the pool.
• Misconceptions — many people assume they can't foster because of their age, housing status, or family situation.

Regional Demand

The highest demand areas include London (9,700+ children in care), Birmingham (4,600+), Greater Manchester (4,200+), and Glasgow (2,200+). But every region in the UK needs more carers.

If you're considering fostering, start by contacting your local authority or an IFA operating in your area. The Fostering Network's helpline (Fosterline) can also provide free, impartial advice.

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Sources: Children looked after in England including adoptions (DfE, 2024) · Fostering statistics (The Fostering Network)
Last verified: March 2026