Applying to become a foster carer with Hull Fostering is easy.
All you need to do is complete our online form or call 01482 612 800. We will get back to you quickly for a friendly informal chat.
We will ask to meet you. This helps us get to know you a bit better and gives you a chance to ask us any questions. Once we have met and you have decided you want to apply to become a foster carer, a dedicated assessing social worker will begin your fostering assessment. The fostering assessment is the most critical and detailed phase of the fostering application process. It is centred on what is called the Form F. This is used by all fostering organisations everywhere in the UK to assess and evaluate an applicant’s suitability to be a foster carer.
As you can imagine, it is quite a detailed report and takes time to complete.
We will ask you detailed questions and complete the form over a few home visits. This is usually between 6 and 8 visits. We will record why you want to foster children and why you would make a great foster carer.
We will ask for your permission to apply for a DBS check and references. We will ask you to attend our pre-approval training. Pre-approval training will give you the 'building blocks' for fostering. It gives you the opportunity to meet and speak to other prospective and approved carers.
Once your Form F is complete and you have undertaken your initial foster care training, it is time for the final step to become approved as a foster carer. This is by attending the Fostering Panel.
The fostering panel is the final step in the process to become a foster carer. For many, it is the step they are most anxious about. It is important to know that we would never let you get to this stage if we did not believe you have what it takes.
Welcoming your first child
Once you are approved, we will work hard to match you with a child who we believe will suit you best. We know our children and will start making introductions as soon as you are ready to accept your first child. It is Hull Fostering’s aim to complete a full assessment with prospective mainstream carers within 6 months of your initial contact. If you are a connected person, the timescale is usually within 4 months. It may be different if the court is involved and there are set timescales.
If you would like to arrange an informal chat to talk through your options, call Hull Fostering on 01482 612 800 or email fostering@hullcc.gov.uk. We will be happy to talk to you.
