The foster care process in the UK is a structured pathway designed to ensure children entering care are placed in safe, stable, and well-supported homes. Each stage is organised carefully so applicants can be thoroughly assessed, trained, and prepared. The steps to fostering include enquiry, home visits, training, assessment, and approval, forming the recognised fostering approval process used across the country.
If you’re thinking about fostering then we would recommend getting ahead of the curve and learn what makes a good foster carer with our guide on what makes a good foster carer and top tips on how to succeed at it.
Initial enquiry in the fostering process
The first stage of the foster care process typically begins with an enquiry. Applicants provide basic details and receive introductory information about the expectations and requirements. A short follow-up call is usually arranged to explore circumstances, availability, and interest.
Subjects like foster pay scales and basic eligibility questions are often relevant at this point in the steps to fostering.
Home visit within the foster care process
A home visit is an essential part of the foster care process. A social worker meets the household, views the living environment, and discusses daily routines. This stage provides a clearer picture of the home’s suitability while building understanding of practical expectations.
Discussions during this visit may relate to areas such as household dynamics or the possibility of caring for fostering siblings in the future.
Training stage of the foster care process
Pre-approval training is required for all applicants. Courses such as Skills to Foster cover child development, trauma, behaviour, safeguarding, and the realities of day-to-day fostering. These sessions ensure applicants understand the responsibilities and emotional demands involved.
Training naturally connects to themes such as what makes a good foster carer and the potential mental health benefits for foster carers and children.
Want a quick and easy way to find out if fostering is for you? Simply Apply now and a member of our team will be in touch as soon as possible to discuss what might be the best option for you.
Assessment stage of the fostering approval process
The assessment stage, commonly referred to as Form F, is the most detailed part of the fostering approval process. It includes interviews, background checks, references, medical assessments, and conversations about experience and resilience. This stage ensures that the steps to fostering are completed with thorough safeguarding.
Panel stage of the fostering process
The completed assessment is presented to a fostering panel. The panel reviews the report, considers the information gathered, and makes a recommendation. This stage represents the final formal review before approval.
Topics discussed earlier, such as strengths, experience, and long-term suitability, may be summarised here.
Approval in the foster care process
Once approval is confirmed, the applicant officially becomes a foster carer. The fostering approval process concludes, and ongoing supervision and support begin immediately. Further training and development plans are introduced to prepare for future placements.
This stage frequently connects to ongoing guidance such as what makes a good foster carer and long-term emotional wellbeing.
Placement stage after the fostering process
After approval, matching and placement discussions begin. Social workers identify suitable matches based on the carer’s strengths, home environment, and training. Information about the child’s background, needs, and routines is shared, ensuring the placement is safe, stable, and appropriate.
Ongoing support beyond the foster care process
Support continues throughout the fostering journey. Carers receive regular supervision, further training, and opportunities to develop specialised skills. Many experience significant emotional growth and increased resilience over time.
Themes such as mental health benefits for foster carers and children often become more meaningful during this part of the journey.
Importance of understanding the foster care process
A clear understanding of the foster care process creates strong, confident foundations for prospective carers. The steps to fostering—enquiry, home visit, training, assessment, panel, approval, and placement—form a structured pathway that ensures safety, stability, and high-quality care. The fostering approval process is built around thorough preparation, enabling carers to offer homes that support long-term wellbeing and positive outcomes for children.
Ready to take the next step? Apply now and we’ll help guide you through the best options for you.