How do I apply?

Application flowchart - A visual guide to the fostering application process.

Application

1. Request an application pack by calling 0845 330 2968 and speak to one of our advisors.
2. Complete and return the application form.

Assessment

• A fostering social worker will visit you at home to discuss fostering.
• You and the fostering team leader decide whether to proceed.
• You provide 6 personal referees, 1 of which can be a relative.
• Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) checks will be undertaken and references requested from employers, schools and health visitors (if appropriate).
• You have a full medical with your GP, which is paid for by the health service.
• Each applicant should attend the 'Skills to Foster' training course - this is designed to prepare you for fostering.  It can consist of 4 days or 3 days and 1 evening.
• Your fostering social worker will speak together and individually with all your family members. This can take around 4 months and will involve about 5 visits to the family home.
• Six of your referees will be contact by letter and 3 will be personally interviewed.
• Any adult children will be written to and interviewed.
• Ex-partners may be contacted.
• Any previous employers will be contacted if you have worked in social care.
• You may have an additional visit by a Senior Fostering Social Worker (FSW).
• The completed assessment report will be written by a FSW and signed and agreed by you.

Panel

• The assessment report is presented to a fostering panel by the fostering social worker. (The panel is made up of an independent person, an approved foster carer, social work managers and a county councillor. Prospective carers will also attend the meeting to clarify any details raised by the panel.)
• After discussion a recommendation is made and sent to the 'decision maker' whose final approval will be required. (This can take up to 2 weeks.)
• If you are approved, you will be visited by a member of the fostering team and asked to sign a contract which will set out the terms and conditions of your registration.
• You will be allocated a fostering social worker and a foster carer "buddy."

After you are approved

• All you have to do then is wait for a child who is an appropriate match for your registration.
• You will be contacted requesting to place a child with available information.
• Their social worker will bring the child and make visits during the placement.
• The child or children is placed with care plans and placement agreements.
• You will be offered supervision and support from the fostering social worker and social work assistant. Out of hour support is also available.
• You will have an induction and further training courses will be identified as part of your personal development plan.
• There are also support groups that you can regularly attend as identified by you fostering social worker.