Advice On Becoming A Foster Carer
Becoming a foster carer is likely one of the most rewarding jobs you will ever have. Because of you, a child in need will receive the attention, support and care they need to develop and attain their full potential. So how do you get started? Though the details may vary depending on your area, the process usually goes like this.
Make Contact
Check for foster care agencies in your area, and get in contact with them. Express your interest, and ask them to send you additional information. They might want to do an interview with you before they send out information. Be sure you ask them any questions you have. Should you determine that you wish to take the next step, request an application. They’ll likely require a home visit before you’ll be able to officially apply. Details of foster care agencies worldwide can be found on the Core Assets Group website.
How To Apply
Applying to be a foster carer can take anywhere between 4-6 months. During that time, you will find out about fostering and what it entails, and what affect fostering can have on your family and lifestyle.
The care agency will ask many questions, and it is important to be as open and revealing as possible. They aren’t trying to be invasive. Their job is to provide children with safe, secure and healthy foster homes, and to do that they need to know as much as possible about you and your family. They may perform background checks and a safety check of your household, and ask for a medical examination and report from your GP.
The Evaluation Process
During the application process, you will be assessed by a social worker. They will interview you at your home a number of times, and talk with you about your thoughts, considerations and questions. Additionally, you will attend a training session. Once they’ve completed your assessment, it’s turned over to the Fostering Panel. They have the final approval. The process is quite open, and you’re encouraged to come to the panel meeting.
The Review
When you become a foster carer, you’re by no means left on your own. Your social worker will provide you and your foster child with ongoing support. Yearly, you will all get together to do a review. You and your loved ones, together with your foster child or children, will talk about their thoughts and emotions about fostering, and share how things have gone over the previous year. You’ll be able to request more training, and advise the care agency about what you feel you need concerning any further support.
Becoming a foster carer is a prolonged process, but it makes positive that both you and the children you foster obtain the best guidance and support along the way.