Family Matters in a Nutshell

Family Matters Fostering Ltd is an Independent Fostering Agency in Kent that was established in March 2000 by Eleanor and Antony Meade.  Antony and Eleanor fostered some of the more difficult to place children themselves originally.  They worked for several independent agencies until the finally got fed up with seeing a job done so badly that they decided to do something about it instead of complaining.  That probably sums us up best.  We try to do something rather than complain.  Actions speak louder than words and we like to work with like minded people.  People with guts and determination, people who can and want to make a difference in the lives of children who haven’t had some of the breaks they deserve.

We welcome applications from anyone who wants to become a Family Matters Carer whatever their faith, belief or culture.  We love the rich diversity of people that want to provide a home for children who cannot live with their own families and we like to provide as varied a mix as possible for those who place children with us.



We believe that the very best environment for a child to grow up in is a family. Unfortunately, not all children are fortunate enough to be able to live with their own families, and fostering can be a fine alternative. 

Family Matters Fostering recruits and trains ‘substitute families’ to care for such children.

However, looking after other people’s children, especially those who may be traumatised by their past experiences, can be stressful and exhausting.

In a traditional functioning family setting, practical help, support and advice has been available from Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles and trusted family friends (whether it was wanted or not!).  This was not possible for looked after children and carer families until Family Matters came on the scene ten years ago.  We recreated this extended family by using full and part time carers to share the load, and give the children the benefit from the friendship and support of other adults.

Registered Office: 45 Queen Street, Deal, Kent CT14 6EY
Registered Number : 6226357