Once we receive your enquiry, we’ll contact you by phone or email with more information. We’ll arrange a call to answer your questions and, if you’d like to proceed, set up a home visit to begin the assessment.
The Fostering Application Process
It usually takes 4 to 5 months for one of our foster carers to go through the application process – this is to make sure that fostering is right for you, whilst also protecting the wellbeing of any potential foster child.
See below for a full walkthrough as to what to expect during the application process, from initial enquiry to approval.
Step 1 – Your enquiry
Step 2 – Your home visit
We’ll visit you at home at a time that suits you to talk about fostering, explain the assessment process, gather some details, and answer any questions you may have.
Step 3 – Application form and stage 1 checks
After your home visit, we’ll invite you to complete an application and carry out our Stage 1 checks, including DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service), local authority checks on your home and employer references, plus medical checks. We’ll then invite you to our mandatory Skills to Foster weekend course, where you’ll learn more about fostering and meet others applying to foster.
Step 4 – Assessment and social workers
Your assessment may take place during or after Stage 1 checks. You’ll be supported by a social worker who will visit you at home, usually weekly for 12–14 weeks, to talk through your life experiences, relationships, finances and ability to care for children.
The assessment isn’t a test, and you’ll be supported throughout. You’ll also be asked to provide two references, and your social worker may speak with your children and relevant ex‑partners, which can be discussed if you have any concerns.
Step 5 – Meeting with a fostering panel
Once your sessions are complete, your social worker will write your assessment report, which you’ll see before attending the Fostering Panel together. The panel will make a recommendation about your suitability to foster, which is then approved by a senior manager known as the Agency Decision Maker.
Step 6 – Approval and next steps
If you’re approved, congratulations – you’re now a foster carer! You’ll meet your Supervising Social Worker, who will support you, provide your induction, arrange training and support groups, and visit you regularly to help with placements and guidance.