The steps to becoming a foster carer
Thinking of becoming a Foster Carer? We’ll be with you every step of the way
Becoming a foster carer is a life-changing thing to do. Key Assets is a Child Safe Organisation the safety and wellbeing of the children and young people in our care is of paramount importance. That’s why all our foster carers go through our comprehensive fostering assessment process, including criminal clearance and working with children checks. This helps make sure all the children, young people and families we work with are safe.
It usually takes up to four months from getting in touch with us to becoming a foster carer. The process for fostering a child will vary depending on the state you live in, but will usually involve the following stages.
Step 1
The first step is to complete our short eligibility questionnaire to find out if you meet the requirements to apply. One of our friendly staff members will then contact you to discuss the application process. If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call on 1800 932 273.
Step 2
A Key Assets worker will visit your home to answer any questions and help you to make an informed decision about becoming a carer with Key Assets.
Step 3
You will be required to attend Shared Lives part 1 which is orientation training that covers all responsibilities and obligations of being a carer and part 2 which is an induction.
Step 4
You will then commence your assessment with a qualified social worker visiting your home 4-8 times to collect information about you, your family; answer all your questions; and start preparing you for fostering. The information obtained forms the basis of an assessment report.
Step 5
Once your assessment and all relevant checks and references are completed, we’ll present your information to a Key Assets authorisation panel. You’ll also attend the panel who will make a recommendation to the Key Assets Director who makes the final authorisation decision.
Step 6
Once you are authorised, you will meet your social worker who will share lots of information about being a Carers with Key Assets. She will also begin to match a child to your experience and best fit for your family.
