How to become a foster carer

Step 1. Speak With Us

The first step is to get in touch! We’ll have a chat to learn more about you, answer your questions, and explain what fostering involves. This is your chance to find out if fostering is right for you.

Fill out our contact form, request a free callback, or call us at 01706 558910. There’s no obligation to take things further, just friendly answers to your questions!

Step 2. Home Visit

Next, we’ll arrange a visit to your home. Don’t worry - it’s not about perfection! We’ll check that your home is safe and has enough space for a child, and we’ll talk more about what fostering looks like day-to-day.

Here’s what happens:

• You’ll sit down with a fostering advisor to talk about your motivations, skills, and expectations as a foster carer.

• During the visit, you’ll receive a formal application form and an information pack with everything you need to know.

• Take your time filling out the form—there’s no rush! You can think through your answers and even discuss them with your family.

Step 3. Application Form

If you’re ready to move forward, you’ll fill out an application form. This gives us all the important details about you, your family, and your background so we can get the ball rolling.

Step 4. Assessment Process

As fostering is such an important role, we’ll carry out thorough checks, including a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check, and speak with your references. This is to make sure everything is in place to support you and the child you’ll care for.

How long does the assessment process take?

The assessment process usually takes around four to six months. During this time, your assigned social worker will visit your home six to eight times to gather all the information needed for your fostering report (called a Form F). The timeline can vary depending on individual circumstances, but your social worker will guide you through everything.

What happens at fostering assessments?

The fostering assessment is a detailed evaluation to make sure you’re ready to give a child a loving and supportive home. Your social worker will cover:

• Household involvement: Everyone in your home will be part of the process and share their input.

• Personal background: Questions about your family life, relationships, and employment history.

• Skills and understanding: Your ability to provide a stable home, understanding of identity and diversity, and your personal support network.

• Statutory checks: DBS and identity checks, health and safety evaluations, and references from employers, friends, and ex-partners (if applicable).

You’ll also attend a two-day “Skills to Foster” training course to learn the basics of fostering. If you want to foster children with complex needs, you’ll receive specialised training covering everything from autism awareness to physical disabilities.

After the assessment and training, your report will go to a panel of experts, who will meet with you and your social worker to review and make any changes if needed.

Step 5. Fostering Training

Fostering isn’t just about opening up your home. We make sure that all our carers feel prepared with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to support the children in their care. That’s where training comes in! 

Our sessions are designed to help you handle all of the ups and downs of fostering. You’ll also have the chance to learn alongside other foster carers and share experiences and support.

We prioritise the training and development of our foster carers to ensure they provide the best care possible, so ongoing sessions are offered to ensure you’re always learning and growing as a carer.

How long is fostering training?

The initial training is our “Skills to Foster” course, a two-day introduction that covers all the basics. Then, you’ll complete the mandatory “Training, Support and Development Standards” course within the first 12 months, supported by your supervising social worker.

If you’re caring for children with additional needs, we’ll provide extra training to help you feel fully prepared. We offer regular sessions to keep your skills sharp and up to date.

What does fostering involve?

We offer a wide range of courses and keep our training fresh and relevant, so you’ll always have the tools you need. 

Here’s a look at the topics we cover to help you feel confident in your role:

• Child protection
• Working with children who have been abused
• Safe Caring
• Managing difficult behaviour
• Managing and promoting contact
• Identity and self-esteem
• Valuing diversity and promoting equality
• Recording
• First aid
• Health and Safety
• Health care of fostered children and young people
• Education of fostered children and young people
• Empowering children and young people
• Preparing children and young people for adulthood

Step 6. Panel Interview

After your assessment and training, your report will go to a panel of experts, who will meet with you and your social worker to review and make any changes if needed. This is the last step before you’re ready to start your fostering journey!

What happens at a foster panel interview?

Your fostering report will be reviewed by a panel of independent members with your social worker. During the interview, they’ll ask questions about your report for clarification or additional details. This is your chance to fill in any blanks, share more about yourself, and highlight why you’d make an excellent foster carer. After the interview, the panel will make a recommendation to the fostering service.

Who is on a foster panel?

The panel is made up of professionals with experience in fostering and childcare, such as social workers, educators, and independent members. Many will have experience from working directly with foster families and children themselves. Together, they carefully consider whether you meet the requirements to become a foster carer.

Don’t worry - the panel is there to help you, not to trip you up. They want to see you succeed as a foster carer!

Step 7. After You're Approved

Once you’re approved, you’re officially ready to start your fostering journey. But what happens next?

How long until you start fostering?

The timing of your first placement depends on finding the right match between your family and a child in need. Some foster carers welcome a child straight away, while others might wait a little longer. The focus is always on creating a placement that works best for both you and the child.

What support will Olive Branch provide?

Your fostering journey doesn’t stop at approval, and neither does our support. Here’s some of what you can expect:

• A dedicated social worker who will check in monthly and be there whenever you need advice or guidance.
• A 24/7 helpline for any questions, help, or emergencies.
• Ongoing training to make sure that you’re always prepared for new challenges.
• A community of foster carers who share their experiences and provide encouragement along the way.
• A generous fostering allowance to cover your expenses and recognise the incredible work that you do. 

Think of us as your cheerleaders! We’re here to encourage you, back you up, and guide you so that you feel totally ready to make a life-changing difference in a child’s world.