Foster your way with Luton

Retired and serving Police Officers: Your Skills Can Change Lives as a Foster Carer

Have you ever thought about fostering? As a police officer, you possess a unique set of skills and life experiences that can make a profound difference in the life of a child. Many retired officers find that fostering is a meaningful way to continue serving their communities, offering stability and support to children who need it most.

The Foster Your Way campaign highlights the many paths available to becoming a foster carer, ensuring that individuals and families from all walks of life can find a way to make a difference. Whether you are a retired or serving police officer, with a variety of fostering types to suit different lifestyles, there’s an option that can align with your personal commitments and preferences.

For example, you might consider short-term fostering, offering care during transitional periods, or respite fostering, providing temporary support to children and their families. Long-term fostering is ideal for those who want to establish a deeper, more sustained relationship, while emergency fostering offers a safe haven during a crisis. These flexible options mean you can choose an approach that works best for your needs while still making a significant impact.

Luton Council understands that fostering is a big step, and are committed to supporting you every step of the way. From your initial application to ongoing training, you’ll have access to extensive resources and guidance to ensure you feel equipped and confident. Continuous professional development is also available, ensuring that you’re always growing in your role as a foster carer.

As a police officer, your background in teamwork, decision-making, and compassion gives you an incredible foundation for fostering. You’ve already shown your commitment to protecting and supporting others—now, you have the opportunity to extend that dedication to children who need a safe and nurturing environment.
If you’ve ever wanted to make a lasting impact, now is the time to consider fostering. With various types of foster care needed, you can find a path that suits your lifestyle and allows you to continue making a difference in your community. A child is waiting for someone like you to step forward and offer them the home and hope they deserve.

Take the first step today—explore how fostering can become your next act of service. Together, we can give every child the opportunity to thrive.

If you are interested to learn more about fostering opportunities, please visit the council's website at www.luton.gov.uk/fostering. Alternatively, you can contact the fostering team directly at 01582 547633 or email fostering@luton.gov.uk.

Information sessions are held virtually monthly. These will give you an opportunity to obtain more information and speak to our team in-person to get your questions answered.