Becoming a foster carer is an exciting and life-changing thing to do. But it's important to remember that the foster children we find placements for are at a very vulnerable stage in their life. That's why it's important all our foster carers go through our robust fostering process. It helps make sure all the children, young people and families we work with are safe.
It usually takes up to 6 months from getting in touch with us to becoming an approved foster carer. The exact application process for fostering a child can vary depending on the state you live in, but will usually involves the following stages.
Shared Lives is a compulsory two-day course for potential carers. It will help you learn more about children in care, and the responsibilities and commitments of being a foster carer with us.
Tell us about you and your family in our foster carer application form. You will also need to give us consent to complete other checks. These include criminal record checks, medical reports and references.
One of our experienced assessors will visit your home on a number of occasions to meet you and your family. They'll find out more about your skills and experience.