Become a foster carer
Liverpool need foster families more than ever. We welcome your enquiry whether you are in the early stages of gathering information or you're ready to proceed. The assessment process usually takes between 3 to 6 months and is very much a two-way process, where we learn a lot from each other. The thoroughness of the process ensures that everyone has enough information to achieve the best possible experience and outcomes for you, and the children you’ll be caring for.
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Initially, we weren't sure if we would be accepted. The breakthrough came when we had a home visit from Sue who instantly put me at ease and reassured us that you're not looking for perfect people
Vicky, Foster Carer
What our foster carers say
Phil's story
Our birth kids have been vital in helping our foster kids learn some of the most vital lessons in life.
Chris and Amanda's story
"You learn so much during the assessment process and that can really help with the decision".
Amina's story
"It's so rewarding, I've discovered an inner strength I didn't know I had"
Tony and Vicky's story
"In four months the transformation has been amazing…it gives us that reward to show we’re doing well and that they are happy”
Anna and Jamie, Daughter and Son of Foster Carers
"Jamie and I have a lot of pride, being part of a fostering family!"
Steps to fostering
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Enquiry
When you first get in touch with our friendly team, we'll send you some information and have an informal chat over the phone to find out more about you and answer any questions you have.
We understand becoming a foster carer is a big decision, so we're here to share all the information you need to help you decide if fostering is right for you.
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Initial Visit
Our initial visits normally involve one of our team coming to see you at home, to talk more in depth about the process, your thoughts around fostering and expectations. We’ll provide all the information you need about the application process so you know what to expect.
We will look around your home and the room you intend to use for fostering and ask some initial questions about who lives in the household, your family, experience and motivations to foster. if you are married or live with a partner, they will need to be present, as fostering as a couple requires commitment from both the primary and secondary carer.
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Pre-approval training
We provide a wide range of training both pre and post approval. Skills to foster is a two or three-day training course completed during the assessment, which gives you a real insight into what fostering involves.
During skills to foster you'll hear from other foster carers and young people in care. It is also a great opportunity to meet others going through the application process and learn and prepare in a supportive group environment.
Many of our foster carers are still in touch with people they met on their training days!
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Assessment
After completing an official application form, your assessing social worker will work with you to complete the assessment (you may hear it referred to as a Form F). They will visit you regularly to guide you through the process and have detailed discussions about a variety of things including; your family, life experiences, work history, interests and skills and anything that will help us better understand the type of children you feel you would be best suited to fostering.
Family members, friends and your nominated support network are also be contacted at this point. We also complete all the necessary DBS, medical and financial checks and obtain references (personal and employer).
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Panel
Once your application is completed, we’ll send you a copy in advance of you attending a fostering panel along with your social worker (it's not as scary as it sounds!).
This is where a group of independent professionals review and discuss your application with you, before making a recommendation regarding your approval as a foster carer.
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Approval!
Once your are approved we'll soon be in touch about children who we need foster carers for, who we think would be a suitable match for you, as well as discussing any initial training you'd like to go on.
Then it won’t be long before you’re welcoming a child or young person into your home!
The Fostering Assessment
Caroline is part of our dedicated fostering recruitment team who are here to support you on your journey to fostering. She gives an overview of the process, and shares what she enjoys most about supporting applicants on their journey to becoming foster carers.
What can happen when you apply to foster
Foster carer Phil remembers when he and his wife first made an enquiry about fostering with Liverpool. They were approved 10 years ago and have since made an unbelievable difference to the lives of the children they've looked after.
