How to become a foster parent
We're committed to supporting children from a wide range of faiths and backgrounds so we’re always looking for more foster parents to join our multi-cultural team, so we welcome your application.
To start the process all you need to do is make an online enquiry or give us a call on 0800 917 7937 and a member of our friendly team will be happy to help.
The application process involves a number of steps and you can see these broken down below. The whole process usually takes between 4-6 months from start to finish. It might seem like a long time, but we aim to complete the assessment as soon as we can. We understand that you are keen to get on with it once you've made the decision you would like to foster. But it’s important that we both think things through carefully and make the right decision. The application process gives us the space and time we both need.
The application process to become a foster parent with ACS
1. Make an enquiry
Your fostering journey starts when you pick up the phone and chat to us 0800 917 7937. We'll answer your questions and tell you more about us. Alternatively, get in touch online and we'll call you back.
2. Home visit
Ready to take the next step? We’ll visit you at home to find out more about you and your family. We’ll give you more information and answer any further questions you may have about fostering and also help you complete a simple application form.
3. Training
You’ll attend a pre-approval training course to equip you with everything you need to become a great foster parent. You’ll meet social workers and current foster parents, and gain a better understanding of fostering and some of the situations you may find yourself in – and there’s not an exam in sight!
4. Fostering assessment
Your dedicated social worker will complete your assessment. They’ll visit you at home to get to know you and your family. They’ll use this information to put together a report called a Form F. Your Form F is not forwarded to the panel without your full approval first.
5. Fostering panel
After your Form F and relevant checks are completed, you’ll attend a fostering panel with your social worker. The panel will make a recommendation to our registered manager, who will make the final decision about your approval as a foster carer.
6. Start fostering
We’ll start the process of matching you with a foster child as soon as you’re approved as a foster carer with us. This normally takes no more than 1 – 2 months.
Great rewards and benefits for foster parents
Who can apply to become a foster parent?
Just about anyone! It takes skills that can’t be taught – like patience, compassion, empathy and being able to put a child’s needs before your own. There are, however, some practical considerations.
Do I need any special qualifications to foster?
Special qualifications are not needed as we will give you all the support and training you need.
Am I too old to foster?
There is no upper age limit when you foster. As long as you feel fit and active enough to look after children, you'll be able to foster whatever you age. Many people start fostering later in life, when their own children have left home, due to the need for a spare bedroom.
