At Skylark Fostering, our rigorous assessment process benefits from the vast experience of Trish, who has dedicated over 20 years to fostering recruitment and assessment. With this expertise at our core, we are proud to offer a streamlined, fast-track assessment process designed to be complete within 16 weeks (including presentation to Fostering panel).

We do not compromise on thoroughness or robustness, ensuring that every assessment upholds the highest standards of safeguarding. Our approach combines efficiency with meticulous attention to detail, providing a swift yet secure pathway to becoming a foster carer.

Fostering assessments consist of two stages; Stage 1 involves considering initial information obtained via references and checks, while stage 2 focuses on a more detailed assessment of your suitability and your preparation to foster. Where appropriate, we aim to run these stages concurrently to streamline the process, ensuring a smoother and quicker progression for potential foster carers.

Begin your journey with Skylark Fostering by reaching out and making an initial enquiry. This is your opportunity to ask any questions you may have, our friendly team is ready to provide answers swiftly.

You can contact us online or by phone, one of our welcoming team members will respond within 24 hours to help you take the first step

Shortly after your initial enquiry, one of our team will contact you promptly to arrange your initial visit. This is an opportunity to learn more about fostering with Skylark as well as providing information about yourself and your family.

The Initial Visit may take place in person or virtually. After the Initial Visit, all gathered information is reviewed to determine if the prospective foster carer can proceed to the assessment stage, ensuring each candidate meets the required standards to provide a nurturing and safe environment for children.

After a promising initial home visit, if both parties agree to move forward, you will be invited to submit an application form.

At Skylark Fostering, we thoroughly review each application to ensure that potential foster carers have the qualities required for a positive and successful fostering experience.

We will allocate your assessing social worker who will undertake the fostering assessment using the CoramBAAF Form F.

This detailed evaluation, spanning approximately three months—though duration may vary based on individual circumstances and availability—constitutes the most extensive phase of the application process.

Your assessing social worker will conduct multiple visits to your home and may supplement these with video calls, working closely with your family to guide you through the assessment.

The process involves thorough interviews exploring your childhood experiences, family background, previous relationships, and employment history, focusing on the skills and insights pertinent to fostering.

It also includes a comprehensive array of references and checks, ensuring all prospective foster carers are thoroughly vetted and prepared for the responsibilities of fostering.

If your assessment progresses positively, you will be invited to participate in our comprehensive 3-day preparation to foster training course.

This essential training, equips you with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide exceptional care.

The course is facilitated by our experienced social workers and includes insights from current foster carers.

A critical stage of the assessment; here, a panel of experienced professionals with diverse expertise in child care will conduct a thorough interview.

They will explore your motivations for fostering and assess your readiness to meet the needs of children.

After careful deliberation, the panel will make a recommendation on your approval as a Skylark Fostering carer; this is presented to the Agency Decision Maker who will evaluate the recommendation, and make the ultimate decision on approval.

Once approved, you'll embark on your fostering career with Skylark Fostering. We will carefully match you with a child whose needs align with your strengths and capabilities, ensuring you both have the best start together.

This thoughtful matching process marks the beginning of your rewarding role as a foster carer, where you'll provide a nurturing environment and make a profound difference in a child’s life.

You will have the support from your Skylark Fostering Supervising Social Worker as well as the wider Skylark Fostering team.