Helping Fostering South West Recruit More Carers
Recruiting foster carers is one of the biggest challenges we face. Across the South West, more children need loving homes, but fewer people are coming forward. That’s why Fostering South West has partnered with Care Friends, an award-winning referral app that makes it easy for foster carers to help us find new carers.
What is Care Friends?
Care Friends is a simple, secure app that turns personal recommendations into powerful recruitment. Existing foster carers can share opportunities with friends, family, and their wider network – and earn rewards for successful referrals. Research shows word of mouth is the most effective way to recruit foster carers, and Care Friends makes it effortless.
Why it works
64% of enquiries generated through Care Friends are rated “high quality”. Conversion rates are three times higher than traditional advertising. Carers feel valued for helping us grow.
Why We’re Partnering
Our mission is to keep children close to their communities. By using Care Friends, foster carers can:
- Share fostering opportunities easily via social media, messaging apps, or email.
- Earn points and rewards for each stage of the referral process.
- Help more children find loving homes by inspiring people they know to foster.
This is where the ‘Behind Every Backpack’ campaign’s message resonates so strongly. Every backpack – whether it’s a school bag or a MadLug bag – represents a child’s journey. Foster carers have the opportunity to ensure that journey is filled with dignity, hope, and belonging.
How it works
- Download the Care Friends app – free on iOS and Android.
- Share fostering opportunities with your network.
- Earn rewards as your referrals progress.
- Each point equals £1, and carers can cash out once they reach 50 points.

Why We’re Ready to Make a Difference?
Download the Care Friends app today and start sharing fostering opportunities. Every referral helps a child find a safe, loving home.
Download Care Friends now.
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A. FosterCarer,
Interested in becoming a foster carer?
We’d love to hear from you! Get in touch with our experienced, friendly team for a chat about foster care…
