What checks are required to become a foster carer in Birmingham?

The checks for fostering are designed to assess safeguarding, health, identity, relationships, accommodation and overall suitability. They are completed as part of a wider fostering assessment rather than considered in isolation, so a concern in one area does not automatically determine the outcome.

Criminal record and safeguarding checks

An enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is normally required for each applicant. Checks may also be needed for adults in the household and, depending on the circumstances, other people who have regular and significant contact with a child placed in the home. The fostering service will explain who needs to be checked and what information must be provided.

A criminal record does not always prevent someone from fostering. The nature of an offence, how long ago it occurred, the sentence, the applicant’s age at the time and evidence of changed circumstances may all be considered. Certain offences involving children or serious safeguarding risks can prevent approval, but applicants should disclose relevant information fully rather than assume they will be rejected.

Identity, address and household checks

You will need to provide documents confirming your identity and current address. The assessment also considers who lives in or regularly visits your home, including children and other adults. This helps the fostering service understand the household’s routines, relationships and ability to maintain appropriate boundaries and privacy for a child.

Your home will be assessed for safety and suitability. This is not about having an expensive or perfect property. The assessor will look at practical matters such as sleeping arrangements, space, general condition, fire safety and whether the home can provide a stable environment for the type of fostering you are considering.

Health assessment

A medical assessment is usually completed by your GP or another suitably qualified medical professional. It considers whether your physical and emotional health is compatible with fostering, including the demands of caring for a child who may have experienced trauma, neglect or disrupted relationships.

Having a health condition or disability does not automatically rule out fostering. The relevant question is whether you can safely meet a child’s needs, with reasonable adjustments or support where appropriate. You may be asked for further medical information if the assessing professional needs to understand the impact of a condition or treatment.

References and checks on your history

Personal references are usually requested from people who know you well and can comment on your character, relationships and ability to care for children. References are expected to be balanced and specific; they are not simply recommendations.

Employment checks may be requested where your work involves children or vulnerable people, or where your employment history helps the assessor understand your experience and circumstances. The assessment normally explores previous addresses, significant relationships and relevant periods of your life. Former partners may be approached for information where this is appropriate and possible.

Financial and legal information

You will be asked about your financial circumstances and any relevant legal matters. The purpose is to establish that your household is financially stable and that fostering payments would not be used to manage an unresolved financial crisis. Fostering allowances are not a substitute for meeting basic household costs.

Applicants should be open about bankruptcy, significant debt, court proceedings or other circumstances that could affect fostering. The fostering service can explain which documents are needed and how particular circumstances will be considered.

What you will need to provide

• Proof of identity and address.
• Information about household members and regular visitors.
• Details of current and previous addresses, employment and significant relationships.
• Consent for DBS, medical, reference and other relevant checks.
• Information about any convictions, cautions, investigations or safeguarding concerns.
• Details of your home, pets, vehicles and daily routines where these may affect a child’s safety.

It is important to answer forms accurately and tell your assessing social worker if your circumstances change during the assessment. Withholding information can create greater concerns than the issue itself and may delay the assessment while records are clarified. Checks can also be reviewed or updated later if your household circumstances change or if you are approved to foster.

The completed checks are considered alongside interviews, training, household discussions and your ability to meet the needs of particular children. The assessment will identify strengths, areas requiring further information and any support or safeguards that may be needed before approval. Your local fostering team can explain each stage, help you understand the documents required and discuss any concern before you decide whether to apply.