Step 4: Skills to Foster Training

Before approval, all applicants complete pre-approval training (often called “Skills to Foster”).

This training covers:

• Understanding trauma

• Attachment and behaviour

• Safeguarding

• Working with birth families

• The role of a foster carer

Many applicants find this stage empowering. It helps you understand the realities of fostering and prepares you for challenges before they arise.

Step 5: The Form F Assessment

This is the most detailed part of the process.

Over approximately three to four months, you will work closely with an assessing social worker to complete your Form F report.

This involves:

• Exploring your background and childhood

• Discussing your relationships

• Looking at your parenting style (if applicable)

• Understanding how you manage stress

• Reviewing your support network

• Reflecting on your resilience

This can sound intense — but it is not about catching you out.

It is about ensuring:

• You are emotionally prepared

• You understand the realities of fostering

• The right type of placement is agreed

• Children are matched safely

At Fostering Hearts, our supervising social workers support around six families. This means your assessment feels personal and responsive — not rushed or impersonal.

Is the Assessment Intrusive?

This is one of the most common fears.

The assessment does explore your past and relationships. That’s because fostering involves caring for children who may have experienced trauma, and emotional resilience matters.

However:

• You are treated with respect

• Questions are explained clearly

• You can ask questions at any time

• Nothing is done without transparency

Many carers say they found the assessment reflective and valuable.

Step 6: Fostering Panel

Once your assessment is complete, it is presented to an independent fostering panel.

You will attend panel (with your social worker’s support).

Panel members may ask questions about:

• Your motivation

• Your understanding of fostering

• The age range you’ve chosen

The atmosphere is professional but not hostile. Panel exists to ensure safe decisions are made for children.

After discussion, the panel makes a recommendation.

Step 7: Agency Decision & Approval

The Agency Decision Maker reviews the panel’s recommendation and makes the final decision.

If approved, you receive confirmation outlining:

• Your approval status

• Agreed age range

• Type of placements

You are now an approved foster carer.

How Long Does the Application Process Take?

On average, the full process takes four to six months.

This allows time for:

• Background checks

• Training

• Thorough assessment

• Panel scheduling

It is thorough — because children deserve safe, prepared carers — but it is not unnecessarily delayed.

We move at a steady, supportive pace.

Do You Get Paid During the Process?

No.

Fostering fees begin once you are approved and a child is placed.

At Fostering Hearts, foster carers receive:

• £479.50 per week (ages 0–10)

• £507.50 per week (ages 11+)

We are always transparent about financial planning so you can prepare confidently.

What If I’m Not Approved?

In some cases, applicants may not be approved.

If this happens:

• Reasons are explained clearly

• Feedback is given respectfully

• In some cases, re-application may be possible later

The process is always handled professionally and sensitively.

Is Transferring Easier If I’m Already Approved?

Yes.

If you are already an approved foster carer, the transfer process is usually more streamlined. It still involves assessment, but your existing experience and approval are taken into account.

We are happy to discuss transfers confidentially.

What Makes the Process Different with Fostering Hearts?

The application stages are similar across agencies — but the experience differs.

At Fostering Hearts, you can expect:

• Low supervising social worker caseloads (around six families)

• 24/7 support

• Clear communication

• Relationship-based approach

• Careful matching

• Competitive fostering fees

We do not rush approvals.
We do not rush placements.
We prioritise long-term stability.

Is the Fostering Application Process Worth It?

The process requires honesty, reflection and commitment.

But every approved foster carer began exactly where you are now — asking questions.

The assessment is not designed to exclude people.
It is designed to prepare them.

If you are willing to:

• Reflect openly

• Learn continuously

• Provide stability

• Stay consistent

then the process is entirely achievable.

Ready to Take the First Step?

Right now, across the Midlands, East of England, Yorkshire and Greater Manchester, children need stable homes.

The fostering application process may feel significant — but it begins with something simple:

A conversation.

Book a call back, ask your questions, and explore whether fostering could be the right step for you.

You don’t need to commit today.

You just need to begin.