Fostering
You can make a difference
Being a foster carer is rewarding, challenging and fun. We need all kinds of carers to look after children who can’t live with their own families. Foster carers are all different. They look after children for a few weeks or permanently, live on their own or as a couple, support one child or many.
You can link through to fostering information here or phone us on 01620 827643 or email children&families@eastlothian.gov.uk
We're looking forward to hearing from you.
Sharon's story
Sharon has fostered 26 teens over 15 years and says that she wouldn't take little ones now. Find out why.
Jackie's story
Jackie Robertson is 49 and married to Gary. They have one teenage daughter who lives at home. She does a mixture of fostering and respite care and has so far looked after five children. She is currently fostering two children. More . . .
Charlie's story
Charlie Stewart is 53 and lives in East Lothian with his wife Ray and have fostered for 11 years. Charlie and Ray have three children of their own and three grandchildren. More . . .
Adoption and permanent care
Every year, children in East Lothian need permanent care and we are always looking for people who are interested in becoming a permanent carer or an adoptive parent. Find out more . . .
More about fostering
See some of our foster carers talking about their experiences on You Tube. Or come and join us for a chat. We'll be at the Regent Room, Brunton Hall, Musselburgh on 15 May (7-9pm), Loch Centre, Tranent on 17th May (7-9pm) and at the Community Room, Dunbar Townhouse on the 21st May (7-9pm). Find out more about what it's like being a foster carer in East Lothian from Foster Carer News
Private fostering
Sometimes parents ask other people to look after their child for a while. The local authority does not usually get involved if it is a close relative of the child (a parent, brother, sister, uncle aunt or grandparent), or just a brief arrangement. But when a parent asks someone to look after their child who is not a close relative, and the child stays with them for over 28 days, this is private fostering and you must let your local council know. More . . .