preparation groups
preparation groups
As part of your journey to become a Foster Carer you will be invited to attend preparation groups. These groups will provide you with information to learn more about fostering. You will also have the opportunity to meet experienced foster carers, some of the other professionals who support carers, children and young people who have been in foster care and the children of foster carers.
The content of the course will provide you with further information about the issues you may come across in fostering. They are held over a number of sessions and will cover a wide range of topics about the fostering task and the needs of children who require foster care including:
- Why children come into care
- Who are the children that need to be fostered
- Child development
- Attachment, separation and loss
- Health issues
- Contact with birth families; Legal process
- Identity
- Future support
home study
The home study is a detailed report which is compiled by your assessing Social Worker on your suitability to become foster carers parents.
The home study usually takes around 6 months to complete, although on occasions delays can occur. Your allocated Social Worker will visit your home and family throughout this period getting information on a wide range of issues including:
- Family background
- Education
- Employment
- Leisure activities
- Parenting experience
- Relationships
- Accommodation
- Finances
- Health
- Matching considerations
- Supports
- Motivation
