Frequently asked Questions
Do I need training to become a foster carer?Yes, you will be expected to attend a ‘Skills to Foster’ training course which lasts approximately four days. All training is provided free of charge and on a regular basis to suit our carers availability. You will also have access to continued training in line with our development program. Please see our section ‘Three Reasons’ for more information.
Do I need any formal qualifications before I apply?No, all training is provided and no qualifications or certificates are necessary prior to your application.
Who can be a foster carer?Anyone who has a home (rented or owned) with a spare bedroom can apply to be become a foster carer. Child care involvement is favourable, but not essential. We value any foster care experience you may already have, but we regard commitment to a child’s welfare just as important.
Can I still work and foster?Generally no, as at Diverse Care we regard fostering as a full-time profession and so with our high income and support package our carers can dedicate themselves to providing a stable environment for the children they care for. If you have a partner, however, there is no reason why they cannot continue with their full-time employment.
What will my income be?Our carers are rewarded with a higher income than other independent agencies and local authorities. Please refer to ‘Three Reasons’ for more information on finance.
Can I still foster if my partner has a criminal record?Some offences could stop you from becoming a carer if you or any of your family have convictions of a sexual or violent nature. Providing these offences are not against children, they will be viewed on a case by case basis. Please Contact Us for advice in this instance.
What children can I foster?You will be assessed on the range of children that would be suitable for your situation and capabilities prior to any placements. Individual circumstances such as the age, gender and ethnicity of the young person will be taken into account. Your views and preferences will of course be considered during this careful matching process. |
As a single person, am I still eligible?Yes, being a single carer can be a valuable asset to a fostering agency, in particular there are children and young people that can only be placed within a single male/female household.
Do I need a spare room to foster?Yes, any placement will require a spare room in your household.
We have small children, can we still foster?The type of placement you will have is dependent on your assessment, we consider each situation carefully.
Are there many checks to be completed during assessment?Several checks will need to be carried out during your assessment:
You will also need to provide full proof of address and identity, such as passport and Bank statement.
Will my partner need to be checked and attend training?Anyone in frequent contact with your foster child or who regularly visits your home will need to have all the necessary checks, and possibly training. This will normally mean your partner, and or children.
Do I have to pay tax on my earnings?Foster carers are normally exempt from paying tax, as long as your receipts do not exceed the qualifying amount. For for information please visit the Inland Revenue Website.
What support am I given?Our carers are given frequent paid respite and you are fully supported at every stage in your career. We consider you as part of our family and no matter what problem or situation you may have with your placement, we will be there for you. For most situations, your supervising social worker is responsible for supporting you. If it is an emergency, or if it is out of hours, you can get assistance on our 24/7 Helpline. |