Are you thinking about becoming a foster parent in the UK? Then you will want to know exactly what the process is and how it works.
As an Independent Fostering Agency (IFA) based in Essex, we have shared below the steps our team take to support people in becoming foster parents and to find the right person for the role.
1) A Phone Call with Our Recruitment Team
The first thing you will need to do is get in touch with us via our online form or enquiry hotline: 07723 117928. Here, you will speak to one of our Recruitment Team who will give you more information about fostering. They will also ask you a few questions about your circumstances and how becoming a foster parent could work for you. This is the perfect time to ask any questions if you have them!
2) A Home Visit by Our Team
After this phone call, if you think that fostering is something you would like to know more about, one of our Recruitment Team will visit you at your home. This is when our Fostering Advisor will talk with you and your family to understand the practicalities of fostering for you. We will also ask a few more questions about you to get a clearer picture of your situation. If we feel you are suitable for fostering, you will be accepted for the next step.
3) Filling in an Application Form
Following this visit, if you are successful and wish to continue, you will be invited to complete our application form which will be done online. This will provide information for a Social Worker to include in your assessment later on.
4) Attending the Skills to Foster Training Course
Anyone looking to become a foster parent is asked to attend our Skill to Foster training which lasts just three days. It is necessary to take part in the training as it covers the essentials of fostering. It will also help you to determine whether fostering is definitely for you.
5) Completing the Form F Assessment
This is the longest part of your application to become a foster parent but the most important. You will be visited by an allocated Social Worker who will assess your skills to be a foster parent. This will be done through a series of questions and collecting references from friends and family. You should also expect to go through a number of checks including police, DBS and a medical.
6) Getting The Final Approval
Once your assessment has been completed, you will be invited to an expert panel who will review your Form F. If they are happy with your application, they will recommend you to the Agency Decision Maker for final approval. If this is the case, you will officially become a foster parent with our agency and we will start looking to match a child to you.
If you are interested in becoming a foster parent with Mosaic Foster Care, get in touch with our team on 07723 117928 or info@mosaicfostercare.com
Otherwise, you can also follow us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram to find out more about our independent fostering agency.
