Fostering in Belfast
Fostering in Northern Ireland is managed by the Health and Social Care Trusts — not local councils. The Belfast Trust urgently needs more foster carers for children across the city and wider area.
Northern Ireland uses HSC Trusts — not councils — to manage fostering. The regulatory body is the RQIA rather than Ofsted.
What Fostering Looks Like in Belfast
Northern Ireland has a distinct fostering system. Instead of local authorities, fostering is managed by 5 Health and Social Care Trusts — the Belfast Trust being the largest. Foster carers in Northern Ireland are assessed to the same standards as in England (using Form F) but regulated by the HSC Trusts and overseen by the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA). The Foster Care Associates NI is the main private sector provider.
Types of Fostering Available in Belfast
Local Authority Fostering Contacts
Contact your local authority directly, or read our guide on LA vs IFA fostering before deciding.
| Local Authority | Phone | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Belfast HSC Trust | 028 9504 0350 | belfasttrust.hscni.net/fostering |
| South Eastern HSC Trust | 028 9181 8390 | setrust.hscni.net/fostering |
| Northern HSC Trust | 028 2563 5530 | northerntrust.hscni.net/fostering |
| South HSC Trust | 028 3741 3241 | southerntrust.hscni.net/fostering |
How Much Do Foster Carers Earn in Belfast?
Most LAs pay a weekly allowance only. A small number pay an additional professional fee for experienced carers.
IFAs pay a weekly allowance plus a professional fee. Most IFA carers pay zero income tax thanks to HMRC’s Qualifying Care Relief.
Want to understand these figures in more detail? Read our complete foster carer pay guide or our tax guide for foster carers.
Frequently Asked Questions — Fostering in Belfast
Is the fostering system in Northern Ireland different to England?
Yes. NI uses HSC Trusts instead of local authorities, and is regulated by the RQIA rather than Ofsted. The Form F assessment process is broadly the same.
Are there IFAs operating in Belfast?
Yes — a small number of IFAs including FCA Northern Ireland operate alongside the HSC Trusts.
Ready to Start Fostering in Belfast?
The next step is to speak with an agency or your local authority. Most fostering enquiries take just 10 minutes and carry no obligation.