Your Fostering Journey with Us

We’re here to support you at every step – from your first enquiry to welcoming a child into your home and beyond.

The process of becoming a Foster Carer typically takes between 12 and 20 weeks – but this depends on your availability and circumstances.

If you’re ready to move quickly, we’re more than happy to fast-track things.

We will work at a pace that suits you.

Step-by-step:

• Step 1: Exploring
  Take your time to research. We’re here to help you learn more about fostering and whether it’s right for you.

• Step 2: Initial Chat and Home Visit
  Eilidh from our team will get in touch for a friendly call and you’ll have the chance to speak to existing Foster Carers. If you're ready to move forward, Eilidh will arrange a relaxed home visit.

• Step 3: 'Skills to Foster' Training
  Join other potential carers at our two-day training alongside reflective home learning, which you can complete in your own time. This will support you as you move toward the assessment stage. It’s a great opportunity to deepen your understanding, ask questions, and hear real stories from those already fostering.

• Step 4: Application and Checks
  Complete your application form and begin background checks. We’ll also request employment and personal references. You’ll also be teamed up with an existing foster carer through our Buddy System.

• Step 5: Assessment
  A social worker from the Care Visions team will work with you to carry out an assessment based on national guidelines. This helps us get to know you and your family.

• Step 6: Fostering Panel
  You’ll meet our independent panel who will review your journey and make a recommendation about your approval.

• Final Step: Welcome to the Care Visions Family
  Once approved, you’ll become part of our fostering community – supported, celebrated and never alone.

“I went to a foster training night and was a nervous wreck because most of the other prospective carers were couples, but they told me being a single mum wouldn’t be an impediment... My children were away, and I felt I could still do more.”