Become a foster carer
Taking the first step towards fostering is simpler than you might think. We'll be honest about what's involved — and we'll be with you throughout.
Fostering changes lives. Not just the child's — yours too. But we understand that starting the process can feel daunting, especially if you're not sure whether you qualify or what to expect.
This page explains what becoming a foster carer with Wholistic Fostering looks like, from your very first enquiry to being matched with a child. There's no pressure, no commitment required to read on, and no such thing as a silly question.
Is fostering right for you?
What we look for in a foster carer
There's no single profile. Our carers come from all walks of life — single people, couples, those with birth children and those without. What unites them is a genuine commitment to making a difference.
Warmth and patience
Children in care have often experienced disruption, loss, or trauma. They need carers who can offer consistent warmth — even when things are hard.
Resilience
Fostering is rewarding, but it's not always easy. The carers who thrive are those who can stay steady under pressure and ask for help when they need it.
Openness to learning
You don't need to have all the answers on day one. We provide training, supervision, and support — and we value carers who are willing to reflect and grow.
A safe, welcoming home
Not a showpiece — just somewhere a child can feel settled and secure, with their own bedroom and space to be themselves.
Commitment
Children in care need stability. We look for people who are serious about fostering as a long-term role, not a short-term experiment.
A support network
Family, friends, or community around you makes a real difference. You don't have to do this alone — and you shouldn't have to.
The process
From first enquiry to first placement
The typical journey from your first conversation to being an approved carer takes around four to six months. Here's what it looks like — honestly, without the jargon.
Get in touch
Call us, email us, or use our online enquiry form. There's no commitment involved — it's just a conversation. We'll answer your questions, learn a little about you, and help you decide whether to take the next step.
Takes around 20–30 minutes. Completely informal.
Home visit
If you'd like to find out more, one of our team will visit you at home. This is not an assessment — it's a chance for both sides to meet, ask questions, and decide if there's a good fit.
Around 90 minutes. We come to you.
Registration and checks
Once you decide to proceed, we begin the formal registration process — DBS checks, references, a health assessment, and initial paperwork. We'll guide you through every step and handle as much of the admin as we can.
Typically 2–4 weeks. We handle the admin with you.
Preparation training
Before your formal assessment begins, you'll attend our Skills to Foster preparation course. This covers child development, safe caring, working with birth families, and what to expect when a child moves in. Many carers say it's one of the best parts of the process.
4–5 days over 2–3 weeks. Can be delivered in person or online.
The assessment (Form F)
Your assessing social worker will carry out a series of home visits to complete the Form F — a detailed assessment covering your background, your home environment, your relationships, your motivations, and your ability to meet a child's needs. It's thorough, but it's designed to get to know you properly, not to catch you out.
Usually 3–4 months. We support you throughout.
Foster Panel
Your assessment is reviewed by an independent Foster Panel — a group including experienced social workers, a medical adviser, and people with lived experience of care. You'll attend and have the opportunity to speak for yourself. The panel makes a recommendation; the final decision rests with our Agency Decision Maker.
Usually a half-day. We prepare you in advance.
Approval and first placement
Once approved, your supervising social worker will work with you and local authorities to identify a suitable first placement. Matching is taken seriously — we don't rush it, and we'll never place a child with you that we don't think is right for your household and experience.
The first placement could come within days or weeks of approval.
After approval
You'll never be on your own
Becoming approved is just the beginning. What makes Wholistic Fostering different is what happens after — the quality of the ongoing relationship you'll have with our team.
Every carer is assigned a dedicated supervising social worker who visits regularly, is available by phone, and provides consistent, knowledgeable support throughout your fostering career. We keep caseloads deliberately low so that your social worker actually knows you.
Beyond that, you'll have access to ongoing training, peer support groups, and specialist consultation when you need it.
Learn more about the support we offer →Ready to find out more?
The first step is simply a conversation. Use our short eligibility check to see if you meet the basic requirements — or call us directly. There's no pressure, no commitment, and no wrong questions.
All enquiries are treated in complete confidence. We will never share your details without your permission.