The fostering process

It normally takes 3-6 months to become a foster carer. Our fostering teams are here to support you every step of your fostering journey, from your initial enquiry to approval and throughout your fostering career.

Complete an enquiry form

	Step 1 Contact us
	Step 2 We visit you at your home
	Step 3 Attend preparation training This 3½ day course provides an introduction to the work that foster carers undertake, and the important role that they have in relation to parents and to other professionals, such as social workers, teachers and medical staff. The course will help you to decide whether fostering is right for you and your family, and enable the trainers to decide whether you have the potential to become a successful foster carer.
	Step 4 Complete an application form The form asks for names of people who are willing to be interviewed as your referees. With your consent, we also ask your GP to give you a medical to ensure you are fit and healthy. We also make checks with the Disclosure Barring Service (DBS), the local authority in which you live, NSPCC, education and relevant previous employers.
	Step 5 Fostering assessment Stage 1: A social worker will undertake your fostering assessment. Checks and references will be undertaken. Stage 2: This is an in-depth look at your history, previous and current relationships, lifestyle and parenting capacity. We complete a report with you.
	Step 6 Fostering and adoption panel The completed report is presented to the panel, who will ask a few questions and make a recommendation of approval.
	Step 7 Approval Final approval is given by our agency decision maker (ADM). Once approved you will meet the fostering support team and your own SSW who will ensure you are fully prepared to take on your first foster placement.

Take the next step

Complete an enquiry form

Freephone: 0800 073 0874
Telephone: 020 8545 4070
Email: fostering@merton.gov.uk