How long does foster carer approval take?

Foster carer approval is complete only when the fostering service’s agency decision-maker has considered the assessment and confirmed the decision, usually after a fostering panel has reviewed the evidence. The time taken to reach that point varies because the assessment must show that your household can safely meet the needs of children in foster care, rather than simply confirm that you want to foster.

What happens before the approval decision?

After your application is accepted, a supervising social worker normally works with you to assess your suitability. This involves discussing your reasons for fostering, relationships, family life, employment, health, accommodation, support network and ability to manage the practical demands of fostering. The assessment is evidence-based, so the social worker will need to understand both your strengths and any areas where further preparation or support may be needed.

Checks and references form an important part of this process. These may include criminal record checks, local authority checks, health information, personal references and enquiries relating to other adults in the household. The fostering service may also need information from previous partners, employers or other relevant organisations where this helps build a complete picture of your circumstances.

Preparation training normally takes place during the assessment journey. It helps applicants understand safeguarding, attachment, trauma, behaviour, contact with birth families, recording information and the impact fostering can have on everyone in the household. Training is also an opportunity to consider whether fostering is right for you and what support you may need to provide consistent care.

How is the final decision made?

Once the assessment is sufficiently complete, the social worker prepares a written report. This sets out the information gathered, the skills and experience within your household, any support arrangements and the type of fostering you may be suited to. You should have the opportunity to read the report and raise factual points before it is considered.

A fostering panel then reviews the assessment and makes a recommendation. The panel may ask questions or request clarification if it needs more information. The final decision is made by the fostering service’s agency decision-maker, who considers the panel’s recommendation alongside the full assessment. Approval may specify matters such as the age range, number of children or types of placements for which you are approved.

Why can approval take longer for some applicants?

• References, medical information or other checks may take time to obtain.
• The assessment may need to explore complex family, health, employment or household circumstances in more detail.
• Applicants may need time to complete preparation training, gather documents or make changes at home.
• Visits and interviews must be arranged around the availability of the applicant and relevant members of the household.
• A change in circumstances, such as moving home, changing employment or a significant change in family life, may require further assessment.
• The social worker may need additional evidence before submitting a complete report to panel.

A longer assessment does not automatically mean that approval will be refused. It may simply mean that the fostering service needs a clearer understanding of your circumstances or that an issue requires careful consideration. It is important to give complete and honest information, as undisclosed details can create difficulties later and may lead to further checks.

How can you help the process progress smoothly?

• Return forms and supporting documents accurately and promptly.
• Tell your social worker about any changes to your household or circumstances.
• Make sure everyone who needs to contribute to the assessment understands what is involved.
• Keep appointments for assessment visits, training and health checks where possible.
• Ask which checks or documents are still outstanding rather than making assumptions about progress.
• Use training and assessment discussions to identify the support your household would need after approval.

Approval is not the same as receiving a placement. Once approved, the fostering service still needs to identify a suitable match between your household and a child or young person. This decision considers the child’s needs, your approval terms, the support available and whether the placement is appropriate for everyone involved.

If you are considering fostering, Become a Foster Family can explain the approval stages, the information you will need to provide and the support available throughout the assessment. This can help you understand what is expected before deciding whether to apply.