The Application Process

YOUR PATH TO BECOMING A FOSTER CARER BEGINS HERE

Applying to become a foster carer through Progress starts with a relaxed initial visit from our fostering team. This informal chat gives you more information about what is involved, and required of you as a foster carer. If you proceed with your application, you’ll also need to attend a preparatory training session.

Following the informal visit, you will be asked to fill out a detailed application form about you and your family. A qualified social worker will also asses you through a series of visits to your home, checking areas like your household members, skills, experiences and ability, allowing you to identify and discuss your strengths and weaknesses as a potential carer. You’ll also be asked to compile written material outlining your capability and experience as part of this process. Additionally, Progress will carry out a series of checks such as CRB, medical and local authority, and subject to these stages being passed, will invite you to attend a panel meeting. The panel, made up of independent professionals, parents and foster carers, will then decide whether to make a recommendation of approval for you to become a foster carer.

Once approved, we maintain a close relationship with you and provide a host of resources and support services, with a designated supervising social worker who will visit your home at least once a month and maintain regular telephone contact. This is coupled with access to out of hours support seven days a week, meaning you should feel reassured every step of the way.

In addition, education and health coordinators are available to assist you and your foster child in securing appropriate medical or academic provision, training or jobs. There is also access to an art psychotherapist to assist with therapeutic needs for individuals and foster caring families.

Progress Fostering Services has an outdoor and education centre in a woodland setting that facilitates access to nature and leisure activities for all children, including your birth children. We also organise local carers support forums and social outings to share feedback and advice.

A thoughtfully prepared benefits package includes:

We also require you to attend ongoing forums and training as part of your assessment. Your role as a Progress foster carer is also subject to annual supervision and independent review. Our comprehensive post approval training and development programme means you could receive a formal qualification, such as NVQ Level 3 – Caring for Children & Young People.