How to apply
We’re here to support you on your fostering journey. Start the 6 steps to becoming a foster carer today.
We understand that deciding to become a foster carer is a big step, but it can be one of the most rewarding experiences you'll ever have.
We're here to support you through every stage of your fostering journey.
Where to start
You’ve already made the first step, by being here!
The next one is to get in touch or join us for an online information evening.
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1
Have a quick chat with our friendly fostering team. They will check you have the basic requirements to foster such as a spare room and flexibility in your lifestyle.
You can book a call and we will call you back, come to an information session, fill in our online form or just give us a call.
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2
A member of our fostering team will visit your in your home to find out more about you and if it is the right time for you to have a full fostering assessment.
After your home visit we will be in touch within 2 weeks to advise whether you can proceed to apply.
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3
When you’re ready, fill out and return the application form.
You will then be allocated a social worker and invited to a 3 day ‘Skills to Foster’ pre-approval training course.
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4
We aim to complete assessment within 4-6 months.
There will be at least 8 (2 hours each) home study visits from your assessing social worker looking at your:
- childhood experiences
- adulthood
- how your family functions
At the end you will be sent a report with a recommendation for the fostering panel.
Once you are in the assessment process, we can also arrange for you to be linked with one of our foster carers who lives near you.
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5
Once your assessments have been completed, you will go to a fostering panel meeting along with your assessing social worker.
The fostering panel will assess your application and make a recommendation for your approval based on your assessments.
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6
After panel you will hear back about your approval within 7-10 working days.
We’ll also ensure you’re ready to start caring for a child as soon as you’re approved.
Once you are approved as a foster carer our fostering support team will work with you and will match a child to your household.
Start your journey
Speak to our team about the application process and support available throughout your fostering journey.
How we support you
From your initial questions and inquiries, through the application process and training, to assessment and approval, we'll be with you all the way.
Once you're approved, you and your family will be supported by a committed team of professionals. Our fostering community will help you navigate the complexities of fostering, offering the support you need to thrive in your role.
We have the most amazing, fun weekends with our placements. Even if you are just curious about what is involved, please enquire. We have not looked back.”
Learn more about fostering
Chat to our carers by booking on to one of our events to get their experience of fostering or download an information pack.
Go to the Coram BAAF website and the Fostering Network web pages where you will find lots of useful advice, support and resources about fostering.
Get in touch
Reach out to our friendly fostering team.
You can call us or book a time and we'll call you back for an initial chat.