How to become a foster carer
If you're considering becoming a foster carer, but don't know how to get started, Blue Sky Fostering can help you. We will provide support and guidance through the entire process.
We must adhere to a set process to assess and approve you as a foster carer before you can start fostering. Every step of the way, we are here to support and guide you. Watch our brief video...
Step 1 - Speak with us
Our fostering advisors will have a casual conversation with you to gain a better understanding of you and respond to your queries.
Step 2 - Home visit
If you decide to move forward, we will schedule a meeting at your home to provide you with an opportunity to ask more questions and go over the process in more detail.
Step 3 - Application form
After the home visit, should it be decided fostering is the right path for you, you will be asked to submit an application. A social worker will be given the task of evaluating your eligibility to foster, and our team will provide assistance throughout the process.
Step 4 - Checks and references
Once we have your application, we will conduct the necessary background checks and contact your references. This is critical for the protection of children in foster care. Your assessor will work with you to gain an understanding of your personal history, hobbies, and the good traits you possess to make you an excellent foster carer. The assessment process that follows your application could take a few months, however, you will be supported the entire time.
Step 5 - Get to know you
In the fifth step, the assessor will spend time discovering more about your background, the hobbies you and your family participate in, and how you would be an excellent foster carer.
Step 6 - Skills To Foster training
You will be given the opportunity to partake in an in-depth training and development course called Skills to Foster. This will provide you with the essential skills and knowledge to be successful in your fostering career. Furthermore, you will be able to interact with other individuals who are likewise on their journey to becoming foster carers.
Step 7 - Panel interview
You have almost finished the process and we will do all we can to ensure you are comfortable in the meeting with the fostering panel. The ultimate decision on your approval as a Blue Sky foster carer lies with the agency's decision-maker.
Step 8 - Start your fostering journey
Once you are approved, your social worker and placement team will work with you in a very close manner to make sure that you and the child you are caring for are a good fit. It is important to remember that the whole experience of caring for a child will be fulfilling and will bring about a remarkable change in both you and the child.
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Common Questions
One of our team members will visit your house for a casual talk on looking after small children and young people. We'll discuss the process of becoming a foster carer, offer book and research recommendations, and go over your responsibilities as a foster carer.
We carefully match foster carers with children. During the assessment process, we will get a better understanding of what would work for you and your home, which will help us make the right matches.
Yes. The matching process is fundamental for you and the child or young person. We will match the needs and requirements of the child or young person with what you can offer. This will be discussed with you in-depth during your assessment.