You may have had your initial home visit, completed your application form, been waiting for the next step in the process, or already started the assessment process to become a foster carer.
Then you get an email through inviting you to attend a Skills To Foster training course at a venue in your area, and you may be wondering what this is and what happens next. Here are some frequently asked questions:
- What is the Skills to Foster Course?
The Skills to Foster Course is a mandatory training course that all potential foster carers need to complete prior to being approved. It is part of the assessment process we undertake to support you in becoming a foster carer. - What is included in the course?
The course is designed to give prospective foster carers an Introduction to Fostering and develop their understanding of fostering. It is broken down into modules that include “What do Foster Carers Do?”, “Identity”, “Working with Others” and “Safer Caring”. - Who delivers the course?
The course is delivered by the Social Work Team in the region you will be joining. This gives you the opportunity to get to know some of the team within the region. We also endeavour to have an experienced Foster Carer join us for part of the course so you will be able to ask any questions to someone who has been in your position. - Is there a test or exam at the end of the course?
No, there is no test or exam. Whatever your level of understanding, this course is designed to support the development of prospective foster carers. We do however provide feedback to your assessing Social Worker about any areas we think they need to explore further. This feedback forms part of the Form F assessment that is presented to our fostering panel. - Am I the right person to foster?
This course will help you with the information you need to determine whether you are ready to foster. The trainers will also be assessing how you engage during the course and with others to form part of your assessment. - When can I do the Skills to Foster Course?
You will be invited to complete the course as part of the Assessment Process. It will need to be completed before your assessment can be presented to the fostering panel. - How long will the course take?
The course is usually delivered over 2 or 3 days. We do need you to attend all sessions in full. If you are applying as a couple, you will both need to attend together. If this is likely to be difficult due to other commitments please do let us know and we will try and work with you to find a solution. - Do I need to bring anything?
We provide you with a Skills to Foster handbook to take away and review in your own time. You may wish to take notes during the course.
Refreshments and lunch will be provided so please do let us know if you have any specific dietary needs. - What if I have questions following Skills to Foster?
We would love to hear from you and answer any further questions or share further information to ensure that you have everything you need to start your fostering journey with confidence. - What do have to do when I receive my invitation?
The contact person will be named within the invitation email so please get in touch as soon as possible to book in your space and to advise of any dietary requirements. Then you can relax and look forward to the course – we will be looking forward to meeting you 😊
If you have any other queries about the course or the process of becoming a foster carer, please do get in contact. Lynsey and Robyn will be happy to answer any questions.
Contact us via our local rate number 0345 222 0518
By email [email protected]
Or website www.ukfostering.org.uk
