Become a Foster Carer- What Needs to Be Done
Becoming a foster carer is one of the most rewarding experiences that you can go through. It allows you the chance to raise an underprivileged child to ensure that they have the best possible upbringing in your care before they can before they can have a permanent home.
Foster caring is a huge decision to make as you will be taking care of a young child’s wellbeing which can be tricky if you haven’t had children of your own. If you desire to become a foster carer, there are some steps that you need to follow.
First, you will need to contact your local acre agency and ask for details about qualifying to be a foster carer. They will get you information as well as answer any queries that you might have. They will typically visit you at your home to discuss fostering with you in-depth. If you decide that you want to carry on, then the next step will be requestioned for an application. The advisor will then decide whether or not you are eligible or not.
The Application Process
The application process can take anywhere from four to six months depending on your family situation. During the process, you will begin to comprehend you precisely the fostering process works and how it is likely to change your life and your family.
The the agency will in this process collect all your information, conduct background checks and contact references. They will also require a medical exam from your GP and the standard safety check of your home. Be sure that you give open and honest reports and if any questions arise, do ask. Understand that the agency wants to approve you as they need foster caregivers but they need to ascertain that the needs of the children in care are met.
The Assessment Process
A a social worker will be assigned to visit your home several times to interview you throughout the assessment process. You will also be required to attend a training course as well, and once the assessment is complete, it goes to the Fostering Pane who decide whether or not you are approved to be a foster carer. You will be involved in the whole decision-making process, and you can attend the panel meeting.
Foster Care Review
Once you are approved, you will be allocated a supervising social worker who will give you continued to support. They will support you in the fostering and conduct a yearly review. In the review, you gather together with your family including other foster children, discuss your experiences with foster care, and share what you have been able to achieve and what you feel you need in regards to additional training and support.
