5 steps to fostering
It's not an exact science but we have worked hard to streamline our fostering application and approval process.
Step 1: Get in touch
Your fostering journey starts with a simple conversation. You might feel a mix of emotions reaching out to us in the beginning - nervous, excited, unsure, but we are here to answer all your questions. No pressure, no judgment – just friendly, honest advice and information.
Step 2: Assessment
Typically, the assessment will start with a home visit from our fostering recruitment team to learn more about you and dig a little deeper into what fostering involves. If at the end of this visit you feel ‘ready’ we will start an application and begin standard checks, references and a medical.
Your dedicated social worker will visit you regularly, which helps us understand your strengths and vulnerabilities, how best to support you and your family, and ensures safety for everyone involved. The assessment process takes approximately six months.
Step 3: Training
After the initial visit we will also recommend you attend our ‘Skills to Foster’ training which is six practical sessions, led by experienced social workers and foster carers. This will give you an introduction to the skills and knowledge needed to provide exceptional therapeutic care for our children and young people.
Step 4: Fostering panel
Your finalised assessment will be presented to an independent fostering panel. They’ll interview you (with your social worker) and make a recommendation to our Agency Decision Maker (Head of Fostering Service) who will then make the final decision. Once approved - congratulations, you're ready to start making a difference to the lives of local children and young people!
Step 5: Your first foster child
As soon as you are approved as a fostering household, we will look to match your specific family dynamic, skills and approval terms with a child in care who needs a loving home.
Your first foster child is an important and exciting part of your fostering journey, but don’t worry, we will continue to support you every step of the way. From regular visits, local support groups, further training, events and more –we will help you flourish in our fostering family as you nurture the potential of the children in your care.