Why Bristol and beyond need more foster carers for unaccompanied asylum-seeking children

Why Bristol and beyond need more foster carers for unaccompanied asylum-seeking children

Bristol has a proud reputation as a welcoming city. Today, that welcome really matters for a group of young people who’ve already survived more than most: unaccompanied asylum-seeking children (UASC). These are children who have arrived in the UK without a parent or customary caregiver and have claimed asylum in their own right. By law, local authorities must safeguard and care for them as looked-after children.

The picture in Bristol

Demand on Bristol’s care system has risen. As of May 2024, there were 769 children in care across the city. Of these, about 10% were UASC—roughly 1 in every 10 children Bristol looks after, reflecting a notable rise over recent years. Many are aged 16+, and delays to immigration decisions can extend the time they need stable accommodation and specialist support.

The national context

Across England, the number of unaccompanied children in care has reached a sustained high: 7,380 UASC on 31 March 2024 (similar to the previous year and up from pandemic lows). Nationally, the total number of children looked after stood at 83,630 in 2024, demonstrating the wider pressure on fostering places.

The National Transfer Scheme is in place to share responsibility fairly, moving UASC from high-pressure entry areas to councils across the country. Local authorities, including Bristol, continue to play their part in welcoming these young people.

Why specialist, trauma-informed fostering matters

Many UASC have lived through war, persecution, trafficking or dangerous journeys. Once here, they also face loss, culture shock and uncertainty about their future. That combination can affect sleep, concentration, trust, and emotional regulation.

What they need, is safety, stability, and skilled, attuned care from foster carers who can provide:

• Trauma-informed parenting: predictable routines, calm responses, connection over correction.

• Cultural sensitivity and curiosity: food, faith, language, and community links that honour identity.

• Education advocacy: support with ESOL, college enrolment, and learning opportunities.

• Health & wellbeing support: GP and dental registration, mental health referrals, and confidence-building activities.

• Guidance and participation: support with legal appointments, interpreters, and ensuring the young person’s voice is heard.

With the right training and wrap-around support, foster carers often say that seeing a young person rebuild their life, making friends, learning English, and planning a hopeful future, is one of the most rewarding experiences of all.

How Nexus Fostering supports you

At Nexus Fostering, we understand the distinct needs of young people seeking asylum and the questions foster carers may have, especially around trauma, culture, and the asylum process. That’s why we provide:

• Specialist preparation & ongoing training (trauma-informed care, safeguarding, cultural competence).

• A dedicated supervising social worker and 24/7 on-call support.

• Peer networks and support groups with experienced carers.

• Practical help with education, interpreters, and community links.

• Generous fostering allowances to help cover the costs of care.

You will never do this alone, you’ll be part of a skilled, compassionate team who support you every step of the way.

Our local presence in Gloucester

We’re proud to have a local Nexus Fostering office in Gloucester, helping us stay connected with our community and provide support close to where our carers live.

Our monthly drop-in sessions is an informal chance to meet our friendly team, ask questions, and learn more about what fostering involves.

Who can foster?

If you have a spare room, patience, resilience, and a commitment to making a difference, you can foster. Whether you’re single, in a couple, renting, or a homeowner, we welcome enquiries from people of all backgrounds. Representation matters, and children benefit from carers who reflect the diversity of the communities we serve.

Right now, Bristol and the wider region need more foster carers who can offer a safe home, steady routines, and an open heart to children who’ve had to grow up too fast.

Start your fostering journey today: Contact Us | Nexus Fostering