Thank you for considering becoming a foster carer with Surrey County Council. This guide outlines the assessment process, designed to ensure that every child is placed in a safe, supportive, and nurturing home.
While the process is thorough and may feel personal at times, it is essential for preparing you to make a meaningful difference in a child’s life.
Page contents
- Getting started
- Initial home visit
- Assessment checks
- References
- Skills to Foster training
- Ongoing support during assessment
- Going to panel
- Ready to take the next step?
Getting started
There are several ways to begin your fostering journey:
- Have an informal chat with a social worker.
- Speak with an experienced foster carer.
- Attend an online information session or an in-person open day.
- Visit the Surrey Fostering Service website for FAQs and more.
Once you're ready, you’ll complete an enquiry form and schedule an initial home visit.
Initial home visit
A social worker will visit your home to learn more about your environment, experiences, and motivations for fostering. This visit is a chance to ask questions, express concerns, and understand the process.
Topics discussed include your family dynamics, daily routines, and support systems. The visit is also an opportunity for you to reflect on your readiness and identify any areas where you may need support.
Assessment checks
The fostering assessment includes several important checks:
- Medical checks: Your GP will assess your physical and mental health.
- DBS checks: A background check ensures the safety of children in your care.
- Health and safety checks: Your home will be assessed for safety and suitability.
- Employment checks: Employers may be contacted to verify your stability and reliability.
- School checks: If you have school-age children, their schools may be asked to provide feedback.
- Pet assessment: Pets will be evaluated to ensure they are safe around children.
References
You will need to provide at least four references: two personal and two personal-professional. References from all children in your household are also required.
Referees should have known you for at least five years and be able to speak to your character, reliability, and experience with children.
Skills to Foster training
All prospective carers must complete the “Skills to Foster” training — a three-day course covering child development, attachment, trauma, and the role of a foster carer.
All household members, including children aged 8 to 18, are encouraged to participate. These sessions are designed to be informative, supportive, and engaging.
Ongoing support during assessment
You will be supported throughout the process by:
- A Buddy Carer: An experienced foster carer who offers guidance and encouragement.
- Social worker visits: Six to eight visits to discuss your progress and gather information.
- Support groups: Opportunities to connect with other carers and professionals through regular meetings and focus groups.
Going to panel
At the end of the assessment, your Form F report is presented to a fostering panel. This panel includes professionals and individuals with lived experience of foster care.
You may be asked questions about your motivations and readiness. After the panel, a recommendation is made and a final decision is communicated to you shortly thereafter.
What is a Fostering Panel Meeting?
Ready to take the next step?
Book an initial visit with our fostering team to find out if fostering is right for you. It’s informal, informative, and there’s no obligation to proceed.
We’ll get in touch to arrange a time that works for you.