Why members of the armed forces make exceptional foster carers

Why members of the armed forces make exceptional foster carers

Across the Armed Forces, the RAF, and the veteran community, there are thousands of individuals with skills, values, and life experience that can make a life-changing difference to children and young people. At Nexus Fostering, we believe that those who have served are often exceptionally well suited to fostering, even if they’ve never considered it before.

Transferable skills that truly matter

A career in the military develops a wide range of skills that naturally translate into fostering, including:

• Resilience and emotional strength – the ability to remain calm, patient, and supportive during challenging situations

• Structure and routine – providing consistency and stability, which is vital for children who may have experienced uncertainty

• Teamwork and communication – working alongside professionals, schools, and support networks

• Leadership and responsibility – offering guidance, boundaries, and positive role modelling

• Adaptability – responding to changing circumstances with confidence and flexibility

These qualities are invaluable in helping children feel safe, understood, and supported within a family environment.

A new mission with real impact

For many veterans and service leavers, fostering offers a renewed sense of purpose and fulfilment. The commitment, compassion, and dedication developed during service can be channelled into helping children rebuild trust, confidence, and hope for the future.

Fostering isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being present, patient, and willing to learn. Many carers tell us they were unsure at first, but quickly realised their life experience had already prepared them more than they expected.

You’re not alone

At Nexus Fostering, you’re never expected to do this alone. We provide:

• Full training and ongoing development

• A dedicated support network

• Financial support and allowances

• 24/7 professional guidance

We work closely with our carers, recognising the strengths they bring while supporting them every step of the way.

Could this be your next chapter?

If you’ve served in the Army, RAF, Navy, or are a veteran looking for a meaningful next step, fostering could be a powerful way to continue making a difference. Your skills, values, and experiences are needed and could change a child’s life forever.

If you’d like to find out more about fostering with Nexus Fostering, we’d love to have a conversation.

👉 Get in touch today to explore fostering and see how your skills could make a difference.