If you are considering fostering, it’s important to understand what the journey to becoming a foster parent involves. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the fostering process in the UK.

Step 1 – Research and Initial Enquiry

Gather information about different types of fostering and decide whether you’d like to work with your Local Authority or an Independent Fostering Agency (IFA) like Family Fostering Partners. Different providers offer different levels of support, so it’s important you choose a provider whose values align with your own.  Once you’ve shortlisted who you would like to work with, you can reach out to them to express your interest.

Step 2 – Initial Call

After your enquiry, you can request to have an initial phone call. This is usually a friendly and informal conversation where you can ask questions, discuss your circumstances, and learn more about fostering. 

Step 3 – Home Visit

If you decide to move forward, a social worker will arrange to visit you at your home. During this visit, they’ll talk through your interest in fostering, explain the fostering process and assess whether fostering could be a good fit for you and your household.

Step 4 – Application and Checks

If you and the fostering provider agree to continue, you’ll be invited to complete an application form. After that, a series of background checks and references will be carried out, including DBS checks, medical reports, and personal references. These steps are essential to ensure the safety and wellbeing of children in care.

Step 5 – The Form F Assessment

You will be assigned a supervising social worker who will guide you through the ‘Form F’ assessment. This involves several meetings, often in your home, to gather a detailed picture of your life experiences, family relationships, and suitability to foster. This stage also helps prepare you for the realities of fostering.

Step 6 – Skills to Foster Training

You will be invited to attend Skills to Foster Training; this training is designed to prepare you for your new role.

Step 7 – Fostering Panel

Once your Form F is complete, your application will be presented to a panel of fostering experts. They will review all the information and make a recommendation about your approval.

Step 8 – Agency Decision Maker

The final decision rests with the Agency Decision Maker (ADM). If they agree with the panel’s recommendation, you will officially be approved as a foster parent.

Fostering Process Timescale

From your first enquiry to approval, the fostering process usually takes around four to six months. This thorough process ensures you are fully prepared and supported to provide a safe, stable, and loving home for a child in need.

Ready for Step 1? 

Reach out to Family Fostering Partners today to learn about the support, training and guidance we offer to our prospective foster parents. By working in partnership with us, we can change the lives of vulnerable children across England.