How to Get into Fostering

Foster carers are in high demand up and down the country, so if you are considering signing up and stepping up, then congratulations.

You are entering an arena where you will make a positive difference in the lives of children who need it the most. This is an admirable thing, and it won’t go unnoticed. This guide explores how you can get into fostering and what you need to do to get the ball rolling.

Understand the Role If you want to know how to foster a child, you must first understand what the role of a foster carer entails. You will primarily be focusing on protecting the well-being of any child that moves into your home by caring for them, providing for them, and protecting them. You will be their biggest advocate and work closely with a social worker team to ensure positive outcomes in all of the key areas of development like therapeutic interventions where necessary, education, and health.

What Do You Need?

To be approved as a foster carer, you must be able to demonstrate the following attributes. Firstly, your home should have a spare room where a child could live and sleep. This is the most important thing of all because safe and private spaces are non-negotiable. Secondly, you need to be at least 21 years of age with no serious criminal convictions related to abuse and so on. Lastly, you will need to have plenty of patience, energy, resilience and commitment

Finding an Agency

The next step will be to select an agency. It is better to work with a local foster care provider because they will be close by and on hand to help wherever necessary. It also opens up plenty of opportunities to meet up with fellow foster carers near to your home and create a strong network of both looked after children and the people who look after them.

Making an Initial Enquiry Once you have picked the perfect agency, it is time to pick up the phone and get in touch. It is always preferable to begin the conversation verbally because this is both more direct and leaves less space for misinterpretation of facts.

Submit Your Application

If you decide this is the perfect role for you, it is time to submit your application. Fill in the necessary details and wait for a response. There will then be an interview process and a vetting procedure which often includes interviews with family members and yourself, and a criminal record check too. This will determine your overall suitability. The completed application will be reviewed by a panel that will either accept or deny you into the fold.

Understanding the Financial Arrangement

Foster care is not a job, but you will receive an allowance for any child in your care. This varies depending on the style of placement and number of young people in your home. It is also tax free up to around £18,000 in most areas.

So, it is quite straightforward. If you want to become a carer, make sure you fit the requirement list and pick your agency. They will help you apply, and good luck!