10 steps to becoming a foster carer
So now you know what becoming a foster carer entails, it's up to you to decide whether to step forward.
- This is the only step that you must take alone. Once you have, you'll find support throughout the rest of the application process and beyond. That first step is to call us. We'll answer your queries and send you more information.
- We can then meet at an informal gathering with others also considering fostering or arrange to visit you at home.
- You can then confirm your intentions to foster by completing an application form.
- You'll meet your social worker, who will carry out assessments on both you and the household.
- You'll be invited to attend our 'Skills to Foster' training course.
- From here we'll complete your assessment, which will include a Criminal Records Bureau and thorough background checks.
- Your social worker will then submit a full report to the fostering panel which will consider your suitability to foster and if SfC accepts that recommendation...
- The fostering panel will recommend whether you get the thumbs up to become a foster carer.
- You're now ready to foster - The next step is the most exciting one, the placement of your first child (or children) -
- This is less a step and more an on-going journey. You will enjoy regular support, supervision and encouragement from your social worker and the rest of the fostering team.
