We understand that some people are ready to start fostering sooner rather than later. That’s why, if your circumstances allow, we offer an accelerated assessment process that moves things along more quickly—without compromising on the depth or integrity of our checks.
Fast-tracking works best for people with the time, energy, and motivation to complete the process in a shorter period. You might be:
Changing career or recently retired
Working fewer hours or between jobs
Looking for a more meaningful path
Already experienced in care or community work
Able to dedicate regular time each week to home visits, online sessions and training
Living in a home with a spare bedroom
If this sounds like you, fast-tracking could be the perfect start.
Fast-tracking doesn’t mean rushing or skipping any essential steps. You’ll go through the same thorough assessment, background checks and preparation as every other applicant. The difference is we work with you closely to complete them in a shorter time—usually around 8 weeks.
This approach works when:
You’re available for back-to-back sessions
You’re responsive to paperwork and meetings
Your personal circumstances don’t add delays (e.g. waiting for overseas references)
Flexibility: We blend in-person visits with online assessments and training
Efficiency: We plan your sessions and checks in a condensed, structured way
Support: Our team guides you every step of the way, helping you stay on track
You’ll still meet with one of our team at your home and we’ll get to know you and your household personally—just as we would with any fostering applicant.
There’s a real and rising need for foster carers—particularly those who can offer children of African and Caribbean heritage a safe, culturally affirming home. Fast-tracking helps us respond to that need sooner, by matching children with the right carers as efficiently as possible.
If you’re eligible and ready, our fast-track route can move you through the fostering approval process in as little as 8 weeks. Here’s how it works:
We’ll have an open conversation about your interest in fostering, answer any questions, and let you know if fast-tracking might be a suitable path for you.
We’ll arrange a personal or virtual visit to get to know you and your home. If everything lines up, you could be offered a fast-track place within 24 hours.
Note: Fast-track isn’t for everyone. If your situation is better suited to a more gradual process, that’s absolutely fine too.
Once your application is in, we’ll confirm your commitment to the fast-track timeline and assign your dedicated assessor to begin the next phase.
Your assessment kicks off straight away and includes background checks (DBS, medicals, references) alongside conversations about your life, values, and experience.
We’ll set a date for your fostering panel around 8 weeks from your application start, giving everyone a clear target to work toward.
A member of our local team will visit you in person, offering support and flagging any additional training that might help you prepare.
We’ll connect you with an experienced local foster carer who can share insights, offer encouragement, and answer your everyday questions.
You’ll join a tutor-led, online Skills to Foster training course alongside others starting their journey—usually over three interactive days.
You’ll attend a virtual panel where fostering professionals and care experts review your assessment with you and make a recommendation.
You’ll typically receive your decision within 3 to 5 days of your panel. If approved, you’ll be ready to welcome your first placement soon after.
Fostering is one of the most meaningful ways to change a child or young person’s life – and enrich your own in the process.
Make a lasting impact on children and young people, especially those from African and Caribbean heritage backgrounds who need care that reflects their identity.
Earn a competitive fostering allowance, with added perks and practical support to help you focus on what matters most – the child in your care.
Enjoy flexibility and purpose as you work from home, creating a healthier balance between your time, values and goals.
Feel supported every step of the way, with expert guidance, peer support and local community connections you can truly rely on.
Grow with confidence, thanks to specialist training that prepares you for the realities of fostering and helps you thrive in the role.
Fostering with Wholistic means fostering with heart – and being part of a movement that sees, values and champions every child.
