Application Process
Become a Foster Carer
Initial Guide Before Applying
We always need foster carers from a wide range of backgrounds. This is important because all children have their own unique and individual background and heritage. You do not need to be married, own a house or have children of your own.
We expect applicants to have:
Other criteria for selection:
Paid or unpaid previous employment or experience in children’s services. Applicants who show a willingness to work towards meeting care standards for fostering. Further criteria for selection will be discussed in ‘Step 1’ with the applicant.
Step 1
Enquiry about fostering
Home visit by social worker
A fostering social worker will arrange to visit you at home to discuss the next stage. They will give you more information and answer any questions you have. They will complete an Initial Assessment with you.
Step 2
Step 3
assessment process
The assessment to become a foster carer is a two stage process:
At this stage compliance and suitability checks will be undertaken. This includes LA check, DBS checks for all adult family members and you will be asked to have a full (free) medical examination from your GP, to make sure there are no health reasons why you should not foster. We will also invite you to attend a preparation training course ‘Skills to Foster’.
A qualified social worker will undertake a fostering assessment to ensure suitability. This will provide information about you and your family, your support network and your skills and abilities in looking after children. You will be very much involved in providing information and evidence for this.
The social worker will write an assessment report which will make a recommendation about your suitability to become a foster carer.
You will be asked to read and comment on the report, before it is presented to the fostering panel.
Fostering panel
The completed fostering assessment is presented to a fostering panel for consideration. The fostering panel is formed of a cross section of people interested in fostering. They will read through your report and ask questions as appropriate. They will then make a recommendation to the Agency Decision Maker (ADM) as to your suitability to foster. The ADM will make the final decision about your approval.
Step 4
Step 5
Final step of approval
Once you are approved, you will be introduced to your dedicated Supervising Social Worker (SSW). They will ensure that you are ready to accommodate children needing a foster family. This is often an exciting time for new carers and you will receive plenty of help and support.
Ready to Make a Difference?
Join Ansacare and become part of a community dedicated to making a significant impact on the lives of children and young people.