The fostering assessment includes lots of checks and references so that social workers can assess if the fostering family is likely to be safe when looking after vulnerable children.
Some foster carers find the number of checks to be tiresome; however, they understand that if had to place a child they loved into a stranger’s home, they would want even more checks to be completed.
Some of the checks include:
ID
The applicant’s ID will be checked to confirm that they are who they claim to be and also to confirm their right to work in the UK.
References
A number of references are requested, such as employment references, personal references, previous fostering/adoption providers, children, previous partners, and health/education references for children in your home.
Police checks
Enhanced DBS checks are carried out for all household members over the age of 18. Having previous convictions do not automatically rule out applicants, unless the offences were very serious.
Health checks
Your GP will be asked to complete a medical reference.
Finances
You will be required to confirm that your income is at least equal to (or greater than) your expenses. Sparks Fostering requests 3 months bank statements for verification.
Health and Safety
Your assessing social worker will check that your home is suitable for fostering and will advise if any changes need to be made. Your vehicle MOT and insurance will also be checked.
Pets
If you have any pets, a pet assessment will be completed. A specialist pet assessor may be asked to visit the home to make sure that the pet, it’s food and other related items don’t present a risk to the children.