Stages to becoming a foster carer

It can take between six to nine months, from application to approval to become a foster carer as both us and you need to be sure that this is the right step for you and your family.

After we receive your enquiry about becoming a foster carer we will send you an information pack which will give you more information about foster care and contains a reply slip for you to return to us if you want to proceed to the next stage.

You will then have the opportunity to talk to a Social Worker about foster care in more detail either at an information evening or in your own home.

Next you will be asked to fill in an application form and give permission for checks to be made with:

• The area Social Care and Health Team
• Child & Family Services
• NSPCC
• Probation
• Police
• Department for Education and Skills
• Two personal referees

You will be required to have a medical examination carried out by your GP and to attend two training courses – a preparation course, which will take place over several sessions and additional specialist training in Safe Care and Sexual Health to prepare you for fostering.

You will have an assessment by a Social Worker run in conjunction with the preparation course and this will be presented by your Social Worker to our Fostering Panel where approval is considered. When approval is given, you will be sent a ‘Notification of Approval’ and a Foster Care Agreement to sign.