The Fostering Assessment Process
Supporting you every step of the way
At Family Works Fostering, we understand that the fostering assessment process can feel daunting at first. Our aim is to make it as clear, supportive, and transparent as possible ensuring you feel confident, informed, and prepared at every stage.
What Is a Fostering Assessment?
A fostering assessment – also known as the Form F assessment is a structured process used to determine whether someone is suitable to become a foster carer. It focuses on your ability to care for a child, your life experiences, your home environment, and the support you can offer.
The assessment also helps us match you with the right type of fostering, ensuring placements are successful for both carers and children.
How Long Does the Fostering Assessment Take?
The fostering assessment typically takes around 4–6 months from initial enquiry to approval, depending on your circumstances and how quickly checks and references are completed.
Throughout the process, you’ll be supported by an experienced assessing social worker who will guide you step by step.
1
Initial Enquiry & Home Visit
Once you contact us, we’ll arrange an informal chat and a home visit to:
- Answer your questions
- Discuss fostering in more detail
- Explore whether fostering is right for you
2
Training & Preparation
You’ll attend pre-approval training, which covers:
- Understanding children in care
- Trauma and attachment
- Safeguarding and child development
- The role and responsibilities of foster carers
Training helps you prepare practically and emotionally for fostering.
3
Background Checks & References
To ensure children’s safety, we carry out several checks, including:
- DBS (criminal record) checks
- Local authority checks
- Personal and professional references
- Health and medical checks
These checks are standard for all foster carers and are handled sensitively and confidentially.
4
Assessment Visits
Your assessing social worker will visit you regularly to talk through:
- Your childhood and life experiences
- Family relationships and support networks
- Parenting skills and values
- How you manage challenges and stress
- Your motivation to foster
These conversations are open, supportive, and designed to help us understand you fully.
5
Home Safety Assessment
We’ll assess your home to ensure it meets fostering standards, including:
- A spare bedroom for a foster child
- Safe living spaces
- Fire safety and general household safety
Your social worker will advise on any adjustments needed.
6
Panel & Approval
Once your assessment is complete, it’s presented to an independent fostering panel. The panel will make a recommendation, and a final decision is made by the agency decision-maker.
Your social worker will support you through this stage and explain everything clearly.
What Are We Looking For in Foster Carers?
We’re not looking for perfection, we’re looking for people who can offer:
- Patience, empathy, and resilience
- A stable home environment
- Willingness to learn and accept support
- Commitment to meeting a child’s needs
Foster carers come from all backgrounds. You can foster whether you’re:
- Single, married, or in a relationship
- Renting or owning your home
- Working full-time or part-time
- With or without children of your own
Will I Be Supported During the Assessment?
Yes — absolutely.
Throughout the fostering assessment, you’ll receive:
- A dedicated assessing social worker
- Honest guidance and regular feedback
- Time to ask questions and reflect
- Clear explanations at every stage
Our team is here to support you, not judge you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the assessment intrusive?
What if I’m nervous about the process?
Can I stop the process if I change my mind?
What happens after approval?
Ready to Start Your Fostering Journey?
Taking the first step can feel overwhelming — but you don’t have to do it alone. If you’d like to learn more about the fostering assessment or talk things through, we’re here to help. Call us on 01702 65 57 38
Email: admin@fw-fostering.co.uk We’d love to support you on your journey to becoming a foster parent.
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