19th June, 2024
Starting the journey to becoming a foster carer is a big step—and like any new adventure, it can come with a mix of emotions. One of the first milestones is the Initial Visit, which is actually a great opportunity to begin building a relationship with your fostering team. This is when a Fostering Recruitment Advisor (FRA) comes to your home to get to know you and make sure it’s a good fit for welcoming a young person.
You might be wondering what the visit involves. Some people feel a bit unsure at first—but there’s really no need! It’s not about being judged—it’s about helping you prepare for something incredibly rewarding. We caught up with one of our friendly FRAs, to talk through what actually happens during this first visit.
“When we’re looking at a potential foster carers home, it’s not about judging their décor or the way they live – it’s all about ensuring the safety of the child. Making sure they have a room of their own, and an environment they feel secure in.
“Practically I’m looking for a home that feels welcoming. A child will feel so nervous that first time, so I have my eye out for an uncluttered and tidy space. Also, a communal space where they can sit and play with the foster child.
“It goes without saying that a spare bedroom is vital. One which can fit a single bed, a wardrobe and draws. I’ve heard before of families offering to move their own children to sharing a bedroom to accommodate a foster child, or the parents sleeping in the living room. It’s nice that they’re desperate to help a child but I’d advise against this, it could cause feelings of resentment towards the foster child and just isn’t practical long term.
“Other than that, it’s about safety – is the garden secure? Are there any visible risks? Is the house reasonably clean? It doesn’t need to be immaculate!”
“People worry so much about the questions we have to ask to potential foster carers. Yes, they delve deep into your past. But that’s because what you’ll be doing is so so important. Possibly one of the most important things you’ll ever do. If someone else was looking after your child, what would you want to know?
“It’s not about hiding part of yourself, I’m looking for someone with real, lived experiences. Someone who’s caring, kind, enthusiastic and being willing to learn is vital. If you have experience with children, that’s great but more than anything I value openness and honesty. To be a great foster carer you need to be resilient. Let that warm and fun side of yourself shine through.
“On a practical level, you need to be healthy, mentally and physically. Being a smoker doesn’t mean you can’t foster, but I need to know as only children over aged five will be able to be matched to you.”
“Don’t assume you can’t foster – talk to us! We understand that people have things in their past they think will hold them back – in fact, going through hardship can often be what’s lead people to want to help others. Often, it’s not a flat out no, we can talk through things like convictions, debts, issues in past relationships and some illnesses. I never judge your past which has meant you want to help children; I’ll try my hardest to get you there.
“If you’re still mulling over if it’s for you. Drop by to an event and chat to us face to face. That way you get a feel for who we are too. Don’t forget, this is an important decision for you too.”
If you’ve got any questions or would like to find out more about fostering with Capstone, fill out the form below.
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Start the conversation today. Our team of friendly advisors are on hand to answer any foster care questions you may have. We can offer you honest and practical advice that can help you decide if becoming a foster carer is the right path for you.
