Steps to becoming a foster carer
Once you have returned your enquiry form the process of becoming a foster carer begins. The first steps are fairly informal, we are always happy to talk and meet with people who have an interest in foster caring to help them decide if it is the right choice for them.
We aim for this whole process ideally to take around 6 months although each application may vary. You have the opportunity at any stage to change your mind or put things on hold.
Step 1 – Home visit
One of our team will visit you at your home at a time convenient to you. The short visit will last about an hour and will:
- Provide more details of what is involved
- Answer any queries
- Check proof of identity to comply with regulations, (such as a passport or birth certificate, check with us if you are unsure about your proof of identity documentation)
If after these discussions you still want to proceed you will be required to complete an application form.
Step 2 – Training
South Tyneside view training as a very important part of becoming a foster carer. Our courses are designed to be friendly and welcoming as well as informative and enjoyable.
Once an application is approved you will be invited to attend a series of eleven training sessions. Each session lasts approximately 2 and a half hours and will be arranged to best suit the participants.
Each session consists of small groups of potential foster carers and is run by a fostering officer and an experienced foster carer. This environment gives you the opportunity to learn about the tasks involved and develop the skills you will need as well as talk to people who are already fostering so you can share their experiences.
We have a permanent NVQ assessor on our team and our foster carers have the opportunity to study for NVQ Level III in Health and Social Care or carers can undertake a Caring for Children and Young People National Vocational Qualification Level III. Qualification at this level links to financial bonuses for particular skills and abilities.
Step 3 – Home study assessment
Following on from the training programme, an individual Home Study Assessment will be completed by a fostering officer who will visit you in your own home.
This process takes on average 8 visits where the fostering officer will help you complete an assessment document detailing your life experiences and relevant skills. This helps to identify your strengths and any areas you may need to develop.
The completed assessment is then presented by the fostering officer to the ‘fostering panel’ – a group of people who make the final decision about the approval to become a foster carer. If your assessment is approved, you will become registered as a foster carer.
Step 4 - Ongoing support
As a foster carer with South Tyneside you are part of a team. Although you will provide day-to-day care for any child who needs looking after, we will involve you and support you at every stage. If you feel it is necessary, you can also have access to other professionals to help you look after a child, such as a psychologist. We are amongst a small number of local authorities who provide direct access to specialist advice through our Consultant Psychologist and many of our carers find this advice invaluable.
You will be teamed up with a fostering officer who, through regular contact, will discuss any potential placements and offer support and guidance whilst a child is with you. You can also discuss and arrange with your fostering officer any other support and training that you find you require.
When a child is placed with you, you will help to put together a care plan for them. This may include specific responsibilities, such as making sure the child is able to visit her/his family and friends. It may involve working closely with a school, hospital or staff from other organisations.
We also run regular foster carers support groups where you can meet with other carers and share experiences. We have a very active carers representative group who organise social events and take part in training.
> Make a foster care general enquiry
