The fostering journey

There are three ways you can read about 'the fostering journey':

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1. Get in touch

Give us a call, send us an email or complete an enquiry form.

2. Find out more

You could come to an information session or arrange for a member of our team to visit you at home to discuss your suitability to foster.

3. Apply

If you’re ready to proceed and the team agree, you will be invited to complete an application form.

Once this is received, Stage 1 and Stage 2 of your assessment will start.

4. Checks and references (Stage 1)

We undertake a number of checks and references, including a DBS check. You will also need to arrange for a medical to take place with your GP.

5. Assessment visits (Stage 2)

Whilst checks and references are being undertaken, your assessing social worker will visit approximately eight to ten times to complete your assessment.

6. Attending training

During your assessment you will need to attend our pre-approval training, which includes our Skills to Foster course.

7. Your assessment is complete!

Your assessing social worker will complete your assessment and share this, along with the recommendation with you. This is then presented to the fostering panel.

8. Attend fostering panel

You will be invited to attend the independent fostering panel with your assessing social worker.

The foster panel makes a recommendation to the Agency Decision Maker about your suitability to foster.

9. Agency Decision Maker (ADM)

The ADM will then make the final decision about approving you for fostering with Swindon.

10. What happens next?

If you’re approved, you will become a registered foster carer with Swindon and be a part of our fostering community!