The fostering process
Deciding you would like to become a foster carer is the biggest step. The steps that follow are guided by us as we support you through the assessment, matching, and placing process.
The initial steps
We always start by making a home visit. This is your chance to learn more about fostering and for us to get to know you.
If, after the home visit, you feel fostering is right for you, and we agree, we’ll ask you to submit an application. From there, we’ll carry out relevant police, health and statutory checks and invite you to attend our preparation training.
During your preparation training, you’ll receive an insight into what will be expected of you as a foster carer and the challenges you may encounter looking after children.
The assessment process
Once your statutory checks have been returned as satisfactory and you have completed your preparation training, you’ll progress to the assessment process.
This is where a dedicated assessment social worker will work with you to complete your assessment report. They will make regular visits to complete their assessment and will interview everyone who lives in your household, including your children (if you have any) and anyone you have selected as a referee.
During the process, which can take three to four months, we’ll get to know all about you, and you’ll have the chance to learn more about what it is like fostering with Blackpool Council.
At the end of your assessment, a report is produced, which you can read and feedback on. If you are assessed as being able to move to the next step, you’ll be invited to a fostering panel.
Fostering panel
We’ll welcome you to a Fostering Panel meeting with your social worker who will be there to support you. Here, a decision is made regarding your suitability with final approval given to a senior member of our fostering team.
Once approved as a foster carer, you will be allocated a fostering social worker who will help you prepare for your first foster child. When you are ready, your name will be added to Blackpool Council’s list of available foster carers and we will match you with a child or children you can start your journey with!
How long does the process take?
It can take three to four months to complete the assessment process. This is because, like you, we want to be sure that fostering is the right choice for you.
You’ll be supported every step of the way by our fostering team, who will offer you the best training in readiness for your first foster child – and beyond.
You'll be guided on:
- Understanding how a child feels when they are separated from their birth family
- How to provide 'safer' care
- Working with birth parents, including managing contact
- Managing the behaviour of children who have experienced neglect or abuse
- Understanding what it means to care for someone else’s child
Most importantly, you’ll never feel alone. We’ll guide you through the challenges you may face and celebrate the achievements you make.
Want to know more?
We would love to hear from you, contact us.