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- What is Fostering?
- Who are the Children who need Foster Care?
- What does the Law say?
- Can I / we foster?
- What Skills do I/We need to become a Foster Carer?
- How can I/We show you that we would make good Carers?
- What happens next?
- Support and Opportunities
- What are the different types of Fostering?
- Specialist Scheme - Intensive Fostering
- Fostering FAQs
- Learn about Adoption!
What happens next with Fostering?
Information pack
You will be sent an information pack, which includes details of Information Meetings which are held twice a month.
Attend information meeting
These meetings will explain what is involved in fostering for Staffordshire. A foster carer will also be present, and there will be opportunity to ask any questions you may have.
Detailed information form
If, following the meeting, you decide to proceed, you will be given a form to take home and complete and return to us.
Initial home visit
On receipt of your completed Detailed Information Form a Social Worker will arrange to visit you in your home to ensure that fostering is right for you and your family.
Statutory checks
If, following the home visit, we feel that it is appropriate for you to proceed and you wish to do so, we will then take up statutory checks – e.g. Criminal Records Bureau (police checks), Health Authority, Probation and personal references.
Attend Preparation Course
You will be required to attend a Preparation Course. These either take place one evening per week over 6 weeks, or two consecutive Saturdays and 1 evening during the week.
Application to foster
Following the course, if you wish to proceed we ask you to make your formal ‘Application to foster’
Home assessment
This will be a series of meetings with your own Social Worker in your home to look in more detail at the skills and qualities you are able to offer as a Foster Carer. This requires open and honest discussions between yourself and the Social Worker in order for them to complete a detailed report. This social worker will support you throughout the process and during your fostering career.
The Fostering Panel
This report is presented to the Foster Panel by your Social Worker. You will have the opportunity to attend the Panel meeting if you so wish. The Panel will make a recommendation as to whether you are approved as a Foster Carer and the number and age of the children you are able to care for.
