The Matching Process for Fostering: Mosaic’s Unique Approach

How Do They Match Foster Children With Foster Parents? 

The matching process is one of the most critical stages in fostering. It’s natural for prospective foster parents to feel a mix of excitement and apprehension during this time. How can you be sure the child is the right fit for your family? What support will you receive to help navigate this stage?  

At Mosaic Foster Care, we have designed a unique and thorough matching process that prioritises the well-being of both the child and the foster family, ensuring the best possible chance for a successful, long-term fostering relationship. 

Our thoughtful, staged approach mirrors the care often associated with adoption placements, giving both foster parents and children time to build trust and confidence before making a final decision. This method sets Mosaic apart from many other agencies that may rush placements or offer limited opportunities for introductions. 

How Does Mosaic’s Matching Process Work? 

Step 1: Understanding You and Your Family 

Once you are approved as a foster parent, your supervising social worker will meet with you to understand your family’s dynamics, strengths and preferences. This discussion helps us identify potential matches that line up with your skills and circumstances.  

We also explore any considerations that might affect your ability to care for specific children, such as your family’s lifestyle, any pets you have or your availability. 

Step 2: Sharing Information About Potential Matches 

When a potential match is identified, we provide detailed information about the child. This includes their: 

• Background and history. 

• Needs and personality traits. 

• Interests and any behavioural challenges. 

Transparency is key at this stage, and your supervising social worker will guide you through the information, helping you ask the right questions and consider whether the child’s needs suit your abilities. For instance, you might discuss how the child’s background could impact their behaviour and what strategies you might use to help them feel secure. 

Step 3: Staged Introductions 

At Mosaic, we believe in gradual introductions to build trust and reduce anxiety for both you and the child. This process typically involves: 

• Short visits in the child’s setting: We begin with a visit to the child’s current setting, such as their current foster home, kinship carer, or residential home. This allows the child to meet you in a space where they feel most secure and comfortable. 

• Short visits to the carer’s home: The next step is a short visit to your home, which usually includes an activity, a meal, or both, depending on the circumstances. This allows the child to begin familiarising themselves with your family environment in a relaxed way. 

• Longer stays with an overnight: Overnight stays are a key stage in the process. These provide invaluable insights into how the child settles at night, how well they sleep, and how they wake and manage morning routines. Many young people struggle at night and may present differently than during the day, so this stage is essential for understanding their needs. 

• Feedback sessions: After each stage, we gather input from you, the child, and their current carers. Your supervising social worker facilitates open discussions to ensure everyone feels supported and to address any concerns or adjustments needed. 

Step 4: Decision Making 

Following the staged introductions, you and your family will have time to reflect on the experience. If both you and the child feel confident, the match will be finalised. This deliberate and collaborative approach ensures everyone is fully prepared to move forward. 

Common Concerns About the Matching Process — And How Mosaic Addresses Them 

“What if the child isn’t a good fit for my family?” 

You are never pressured to accept a match. The staged process allows ample time to assess whether the placement feels right. For example, during feedback sessions, your social worker will discuss specific scenarios and provide strategies to address any challenges identified during the introductions. 

“What if I change my mind?” 

Your comfort and confidence are essential. If you feel uncertain at any stage, we will support your decision and help you navigate next steps. Mosaic understands fostering is a significant commitment and we prioritise ensuring everyone feels ready. 

“Will I have enough information about the child?” 

Yes. We prioritise transparency and provide as much detailed information as possible. This includes discussing the child’s needs, behaviours and support strategies with both the foster parent and our therapeutic team. Your supervising social worker will also guide you in asking the right questions to ensure clarity. 

“How can I be sure I can meet the child’s needs?” 

Our SMILE therapeutic framework and 24/7 support network ensure you are never left to manage challenges alone. For example, if a child has specific behavioural challenges, Mosaic can arrange additional therapeutic training or one-on-one guidance to help you develop the necessary skills. 

“What if my family struggles with the transition?” 

We offer holistic support for your entire household, including birth children, to help everyone adjust to the changes fostering brings. This may include family therapy sessions, tailored advice from our therapeutic lead or regular check-ins to address concerns. 

The Matching Process - What Makes Mosaic’s Approach Unique? 

Child-Centred Focus 

At Mosaic, the child’s wellbeing is always the top priority. For instance, we work to ensure each child feels safe and secure before a placement is finalised. This includes addressing any anxieties the child may have and tailoring the matching process to their individual needs. 

Gradual Introductions 

We give both foster parents and children the time and space needed to build trust, reducing anxiety and laying the groundwork for a strong relationship. Our approach includes carefully planned steps, such as spending time in neutral environments and progressively increasing interaction. 

Collaborative Decision-Making 

The matching process is a partnership. We ensure open communication and encourage feedback from all parties involved, including birth children in your family. This collaborative approach fosters transparency and confidence. 

Exceptional Support 

Throughout the process, you will have access to Mosaic’s dedicated team, including support workers and therapists. Our SMILE framework ensures any challenges are addressed promptly and effectively. This includes rapid therapeutic responses if any difficulties arise during the matching process. 

Supporting Long-Term Success 

At Mosaic, we specialise in long-term fostering placements, which means we’re invested in creating stable, nurturing environments where children can thrive. Our staged matching process is just one way we work to achieve this goal, ensuring every placement has the best possible chance of success. 

If you’re considering fostering in Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk, Hertfordshire, Northamptonshire or Bedfordshire, we invite you to discover the difference Mosaic’s approach can make. Contact us today to learn more about how we support you every step of the way.