Wondering how to foster a child? If you're thinking about becoming a foster carer, you're probably asking questions like:
"How do I become a foster carer?"
"What is the fostering process?"
"How long does it take to foster?"
To become a foster carer, you'll make an enquiry, have an initial visit, complete an assessment, attend pre-approval training, and then go through the fostering approval process. Once approved, you'll be matched with a child whose needs fit your skills, experience and family.
For most people, the process takes around 4 to 6 months.
Step 1: Make an enquiry
Every fostering journey starts with a simple conversation.
If you're interested in becoming a foster carer, the first step is to get in touch. You can complete our online enquiry form or call 0300 019 0200 to speak to one of our friendly Recruitment Coordinators.
Many people worry they need to know everything about fostering before making an enquiry, but that's not true. An enquiry doesn't commit you to anything. It's simply an opportunity to ask questions, learn more about fostering, and find out whether becoming a foster carer is right for you.
Step 2: Your initial visit
After your enquiry, we will arrange a home visit from your local council’s fostering team.
This is a relaxed conversation, not an interview or a test.
During the visit, you'll learn more about:
- what fostering involves
- the different types of fostering
- the children who need foster families
- the support available from your local council
- what happens during the fostering assessment
You'll also have plenty of time to ask questions. Many people say this meeting gives them the confidence to move forward because they finally understand what fostering is really like.
If both you and the fostering team feel it's the right time to continue, you'll be invited to complete an application form.
Step 3: Your fostering assessment
Once your application has been received, you'll begin your fostering assessment.
Your assessing social worker will complete a Form F Assessment, which helps build a picture of who you are and the strengths you could bring to fostering.
The assessment looks at areas such as:
- your reasons for wanting to foster
- your family life and relationships
- your experience of caring for children
- your support network
- your home environment
- your understanding of the needs of children in care
You'll also complete several important checks and references, including:
- DBS checks
- local authority checks
- employment references
- personal references
Although this stage can sound daunting, it's designed to prepare you for becoming a foster carer and to make sure children are placed in safe, stable and nurturing homes.
Your assessing social worker will guide you through every stage of the process and answer any questions you have along the way.
Step 4: Complete your foster carer training
Training is one of the most valuable parts of the fostering journey.
Before approval, you'll complete mandatory pre-approval training that gives you the knowledge, skills and confidence to care for children who have experienced difficult starts in life.
During your training, you'll explore topics including:
- understanding children's experiences
- how trauma can affect behaviour
- therapeutic parenting
- safeguarding
- building positive relationships
- supporting children to feel safe and secure
You'll also meet other people who are beginning their own fostering journey. Many applicants tell us this helps them realise they aren't alone and allows them to build friendships before they are approved.
By the end of your training, you'll have a much better understanding of what fostering involves and the support available to you.
Step 5: Becoming an approved foster carer
The final stage of the fostering process is your fostering panel.
The panel carefully reviews your assessment and makes a recommendation about your approval.
The final decision is made by the Agency Decision Maker (ADM), who considers:
- the age range of children you can care for
- the number of children you can look after
- any recommendations made during your assessment
Once you're approved, your local authority will begin finding the right child or children to match with your family.
The matching process is carefully considered to help children settle successfully and to ensure you have the right skills and support to meet their needs.
Ready to start your fostering journey?
Whether you simply have questions or feel ready to begin your application, our friendly team is here to help.
If you live in Lancashire, Blackburn with Darwen, Blackpool, Cumberland or Westmorland and Furness, you can foster with your local council through Foster with us.
Call 0300 019 0200 or complete our online enquiry form today to start your fostering journey.
