The process
Here is a list of the steps involved in the process of becoming a foster carer with TACT
Step one - the application form: the first step is for you to complete the initial application form. Once we receive the form, one of our Area Managers examine it carefully to build up a picture of your life, work experience, accommodation and reasons for wishing to foster. The more information you can give, the better. The manager decide whether you are suitable to be considered as a foster carer. If you are unsuccessful at this stage, you will be informed in writing of the reasons why.
Step two - initial home visit: a social worker will arrange a convenient date to visit you in your home. This initial visit may take up to two hours. During this visit, you will be asked about your family and your experience of caring for children and we can answer any questions that you may have. The social worker will write up a report about the visit and will share it with their manager. At this point, a decision will be made as to whether to proceed with your application. You will be informed of the decision in writing.
Step three - training: TACT will then invite you to a training course called "Skills to Foster" where you will meet other applicants and explore in some depth issues about fostering. This course will help you finalise your thoughts about becoming a carer and give you the opportunity to discuss your thoughts and ideas with other applicants. The course is always very popular and essential to helping you decide whether fostering is for you.
Step four - formal assessment: this is the longest part. The assessment process will require a series of interviews/conversations in your home, this will include meeting with any other people who live in the house. The social worker will use the information you provide during the visits to write a report called a Form F, which you will see and will be asked to comment on. TACT will carry out a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) for England and Wales and a Disclosure for Scotland. Other checks will be carried out on all adult members of the household. References will be taken up, including personal references and you will be required to undertake a full medical. Whilst the process may appear daunting at first sight, be assured that it isn’t and most importantly it will help to ensure that when the first child is place with you and your family, you are sure this is what you want to do.
Step five - approval process: when the report is completed, you will be invited to attend TACT’s fostering panel. The panel will decide whether or not to approve you as a foster carer for TACT. The panel includes members who are independent of the agency. You will have the opportunity to meet with the chair of the panel prior to the panel meeting starting. If you are approved, TACT will commence identifying children who you may be able to care for. If you are not approved, you will be notified in writing of the reasons why.
"The reward for me is to see a child flourish and blossom in my care. It is a thrilling achievement, not only for me but for the child and everyone involved and to be seen to do the professional job that you were trained for. Fostering has done more for me than any nine-to-five job could have ever done." Jenny Smith, foster carer in South London
If you are interested in becoming a foster carer or want to find out a bit more, you can contact one of our local offices and talk to one of our staff who will be more than happy to answer any of your questions. Alternatively, read on or download our brochure Transform a life. Become a foster carer (PDF, 8 pages, 786KB)
