What information must I disclose during foster licence checks?

You must disclose any information that the fostering service reasonably requests to assess your suitability, even if it feels private, historical, minor or no longer relevant. Full disclosure allows the assessing social worker to verify the information, understand the circumstances and present an accurate assessment to the fostering panel or decision-maker.

Answer every question accurately. Read each form carefully and do not leave gaps where an answer is required. If a question does not apply, say so clearly. Do not guess dates, omit details because an incident was dealt with, or assume that information will not be found through another check. If you are unsure whether something needs to be included, raise it with your assessing social worker rather than deciding to leave it out.

Some information may need an explanation rather than a simple yes or no. For example, if there has been a previous complaint, allegation, investigation, court matter or application to foster or adopt, provide the relevant dates, what happened, the outcome and any steps taken afterwards. A matter that was closed or resolved may still need to be recorded so that the assessment is consistent with information held by other organisations.

Be prepared to provide supporting evidence. Depending on your circumstances, this may include identity documents, records relating to previous assessments, medical information, references or documents confirming the outcome of a legal or safeguarding matter. The fostering service will explain which documents are required and may ask for permission to contact other professionals or agencies. Delays can occur if documents are missing, details conflict or consent has not been provided.

Checks are not considered in isolation. The assessing social worker will consider the information you provide alongside references, statutory checks, discussions with members of your household and the wider assessment. Where a concern is identified, you will usually have an opportunity to explain the circumstances and provide relevant context. The assessment may consider factors such as how recent an incident was, whether it formed part of a pattern, its relevance to caring for children, the steps taken since then and the safeguards now in place.

A conviction, caution, allegation or previous difficulty does not automatically produce the same outcome in every case. However, certain offences and circumstances can prevent a person from being approved, and other concerns may require further assessment. The fostering service must consider safeguarding requirements and whether approval would be consistent with the welfare of children placed in your care.

Tell the fostering service if your circumstances change during the assessment. This includes changes that could affect the information already supplied, such as a new legal matter, a significant household change, a change in health or an alteration to your living arrangements. You should also report an omission as soon as you realise it. An accidental mistake can often be corrected by providing an explanation and the accurate information; deliberately withholding information can undermine confidence in the assessment.

Information is collected so that the fostering service can make a properly informed approval decision and meet its safeguarding responsibilities. Ask how your information will be used, which professionals may need to see it and whether you need to give consent for a particular check. Personal information should be handled in line with applicable data protection requirements, but confidentiality does not mean that relevant safeguarding information can be withheld from those responsible for assessing and approving foster carers.

Before submitting forms or attending an assessment meeting, make a personal record of important dates, previous addresses, applications, incidents and outcomes. Keep copies of documents you provide and ask for clarification where a question is unclear. The most helpful approach is openness, accuracy and prompt communication: disclose the information requested, explain anything that may need context and update the fostering service if circumstances change.