Step-by-step guide to fostering

Step one - Contact the Fostering Team

If you would like to become a Oldham foster carer, the first thing to do is contact the Fostering Team.

Step two - Informal discussion

A member of the Fostering Team will discuss fostering in more detail and give you the opportunity to ask any questions.

Step three – Information pack

An information pack will be sent out to you in the post within 2 working days.

The pack includes further information regarding fostering and a Registration of Interest form.

Step four - Registration of Interest form

If when you have read the information, you still wish to pursue the application, you will need to complete the Registration of Interest form and post it back to the Fostering Team in the pre-paid envelope.

Step five - Initial visit

A member of the fostering team will contact you and arrange an initial visit to answer any questions you may have in regards to fostering and also acts as an opportunity to process the required checks we need to undertake.

These include, Education, Health, NSPCC, GP, Probation and Police Checks (CRB).

The Fostering Team worker will also take a look around your home to establish if your home is suitable for fostering.

Step six – Preparation training

If both you and the Fostering Team worker feel that fostering is right for you, then you will be allocated a place on the Preparation for Fostering Training, held four times a year.

Step seven – Assessment

Your fostering team worker will spend time getting to know you, gathering information about your skills and training needs, and discussing which child/children you might be able to support.

After the assessment has been completed, your application will be presented to Oldham Foster Panel and you will be asked to attend.

Step eight - Oldham Foster Panel

Members of Oldham's Fostering Panel meet to discuss your application and make a recommendation on whether or not you should become a foster carer.

Once the panel have made a recommendation, the Service Director will either approve it or not.

Step nine - Placement

Once you have been approved as a foster carer, a link with a child or children will be made.