<< Want to foster a child?
The process involved in becoming a foster carer
Becoming a foster carer is a rewarding process. You will be supported by a social worker from the fostering unit at every stage.
These are the two stages:
Stage one
Initial contact
Phone us for more information or fill in our on- line response form. We will then contact you to start the application process. If you or any member of your household has had involvement with Children's Services or any other fostering agency, we will need written consent to check the files before the screening process starts.
Initial visit and interview
One or two social workers will visit you at home to find out why you want to foster and to answer any questions you may have. If you want to proceed you will be sent a detailed application form.
Detailed application form
You should fill this in and return it to us. You will receive a letter inviting you to the next stage of the process. We will also tell you the dates of the next available training courses.
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Stage two
Police and medical checks
You will have to be checked. The medical check will be carried out by your own GP.
Training programme
Your pre-approval training takes place over several months. When you are finished we will meet with you to talk about what you thought of the training and what you have learnt. We will then prepare your post-approval training programme.
Social worker contact
Your social worker will keep you up to date with what is happening and give you feedback.
Home study and assessment
We will carry out a detailed study of you and your family at home.
Panel
A report is presented to experienced health, social care and education professionals who make up the Panel. They will decide whether to approve you as a foster carer.
Decision and Placement
We will write to you about the Panel’s recommendation. A child may come to live with you soon after you are approved.
Support is available to people who are going through the fostering process and to current foster carers.