Fostering Panel - What To Expect

How does the fostering panel work?

The fostering panel will take place at a venue local to you. It takes the form of a meeting made up of about eight or nine independent panel members who have related experience. At the meeting they will sit down together to look through your Form F to discuss the type of fostering placement that’s right for you and make recommendations about the suitability to be approved as a foster carer with FCA Scotland. During panel you’ll be encouraged to share your views and expectations. Your assessing social worker will be there to support you so you won’t be on your own.

FAQs

How long is the fostering panel?

Panels last an hour or so, you’ll be informed of their recommendation right away. Potential foster carers will be informed of the recommendation of panel on the day and this recommendation will inform the decision of the agency. Sometimes the panel can recommend that someone needs a bit more time to prepare to foster. If this happens we’ll provide help with further training and support.

What happens when I’m approved?

Upon approval you are legally able to care for a young person. Once you’ve signed a Foster Carer Agreement you’ll be allocated a supervising social worker who will take you forward. You are then ready to take your first child or young person.

Find out more.

When does my first placement start?

This depends on many factors, such as on your personal circumstances, how soon we can find a child or young person that’s right for you and vice versa making sure we doing the right thing for everyone involved. We get new referrals from local authorities every day, so you might not have to wait very long.

You’ll be in regular contact with your supervising social worker and they’ll discuss the needs of the young person before they’re placed with you, you will also have the opportunity to ask any questions. Your supervising social worker will organise wherever possible for you to meet the child before. We want to make this transition as comfortable and as smooth as possible for you and your family.

Who can apply to become a foster carer?

Anyone can apply to foster with us. We welcome foster carers from all walks of life; no matter what your gender, age, race or sexual orientation. We do have criteria though:

You need a spare room
You need to be over 21
You need to have British Citizenship or permanent leave to stay in the UK

Other steps on your journey to fostering

Application process

It’s important to us that you’re always kept well informed and the process is as stress-free and smooth as possible.

Checks and references

During your fostering application process, we carry out a number of crucial and essential checks and references.

Pre-approval training

We want to help you become the best foster carer you can be, which is why we offer quality pre-approval training.

Your first foster child

Here at FCA Scotland we know that once you’re an approved foster carer you’ll want to start fostering as soon as possible!

Matching and referrals

Matching is a critical part of the fostering process as it defines the success of the placement.

Speak to our team

Whether you’re ready to start your journey or just want to chat to an expert, we’re here to talk.

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