Fostering in South Kent
Whether you live in Ashford, on the coast at Folkestone and Hythe, or out on Romney Marsh, you could give a child the home they need.
South Kent is a mix of busy market towns, seaside communities and wide open countryside. From Ashford and Tenterden to Folkestone, Hythe, Dymchurch, New Romney and Lydd, children across the area need foster families who can give them stability, warmth and a sense of belonging.
Lighthouse Fostering is an independent agency that recruits and supports foster carers throughout Ashford borough and the Folkestone and Hythe district. Because we're a local agency, our social workers get to know South Kent's towns and villages, and we plan training and support groups so that carers aren't asked to travel long distances.
We know that fostering in a rural area comes with its own questions, such as how far you are from schools, how often you'll see your social worker, and whether you'll feel connected to other carers. We make sure distance never gets in the way of good support, with regular home visits, a phone line that's always answered, and local carer get-togethers.
Our agency was started by foster carers and care leavers, and every carer is offered our 12-week therapeutic parenting course. To have a relaxed, no-obligation conversation about fostering in South Kent, call 01227 250096 or request a call back.
Do you cover Ashford and Tenterden?
Yes. We welcome foster carers from Ashford town, Tenterden and all the villages across Ashford borough, as well as Folkestone, Hythe and Romney Marsh.
I live in a rural village. Can I still foster?
Absolutely. Rural homes can offer children space, calm and a strong sense of community. We'll talk through practical things like school transport and access to local services during your assessment, and your social worker will visit you at home.
Can I foster if I have pets?
Yes, in most cases. Pets can be a real comfort to children. We'll complete a simple pet assessment to make sure your animals are safe and happy around children.
Fostering in Ashford and Tenterden
Ashford is one of Kent's fastest-growing towns, with new neighbourhoods and families arriving all the time. As the community grows, so does the need for local foster carers. We support carers in Ashford town, the market town of Tenterden, and villages such as Wye, Charing and Hamstreet.
Fostering in Folkestone, Hythe and Sandgate
Folkestone's harbour and creative quarter, Hythe's seafront and canal, and the coastal village of Sandgate are all home to children who need a caring family. Foster carers here help children stay close to the schools, clubs and friendships that matter to them.
Fostering on Romney Marsh
From Dymchurch and St Mary's Bay to New Romney and Lydd, Romney Marsh offers children big skies, open space and a slower pace of life. We value our rural carers and make sure you get the same level of support as carers in town, with home visits, training and a friendly voice on the end of the phone.
Parent and child fostering in South Kent
Parent and child fostering means welcoming a parent, usually a young mum, and their baby into your home. You'll offer guidance, encouragement and a safe environment while they build their confidence and parenting skills. It's specialist, deeply rewarding work, and Lighthouse parent and child carers could receive up to £49,660 a year.