What is the difference between fostering with an Independent Fostering Agency or with a Local Authority?
Local Authorities are ultimately responsible for the well-being of all children in care. They aim to find the best way of looking after each child and young person to ensure that they receive the best possible standard of care. Safeguarding their safety is also a high priority.
Sunbeam Fostering North West is an independent fostering agency that provides support and services to Local Authorities. We have our own foster carers, social workers, staff members, and support workers who work hard to ensure that the needs of the carers and children are met to high standards and without any delay.
I'm not married – does this matter?
No, this does not matter. Any adult can be a foster carer, but this is dependent on meeting other fostering criteria, including having a spare room. Other considerations include emotional stamina, empathy, the ability to nurture children and young people, and the ability to work with professionals.
Can I still go out to work and be a foster carer?
Many foster carers dedicate themselves to fostering full-time, while some want to work part-time. At Sunbeam Fostering, high-quality care can only be achieved by having one full-time carer at home. Foster carers need to drop off and pick up children from school every day and be with them when they are at home.
Do I have to own my home?
No, you don’t need to own a property to be a foster carer. Many foster carers are living in rented properties. All you need is consent from your landlord or property agent to foster at your rented property.
How long does it take to become a foster carer?
We do our best to process all applications as quickly as possible, usually in six months but more often between four to five months.
If I have a criminal conviction, does this mean I won't be able to foster?
It depends on the nature of the criminal offence. You must discuss the offence with us during the process and declare the offence on your application form.
If I am going to be the main foster carer, do you need to carry out checks on my partner?
Yes, we require that you both have the necessary checks and training during the fostering process. Even if you are the primary carer, anyone sharing your home will have some involvement in and influence on the fostering task.
What will I know about the child or young person before they are placed with me?
We will share all the available information with you before placing a child or young person with you. However, sometimes children come into foster care with very little information. If this happens, the professional team will work quickly to piece together information following the placement. We will also provide extra support to help manage and understand any risks when the placement starts.
Who is responsible for taking the children to school and to the doctor etc?
We expect our foster carers to undertake these practical arrangements to support the school run and to take children and young people to appointments. Medical appointments are always necessary, mainly when a child or young person is first supported. Medical appointments include Doctors, Opticians, and Dentists.
If this is a challenge or if you have a particular problem, you can discuss this with us, and your supervising social worker will aim to help you make alternative arrangements. A child or young person can also travel safely to school on the bus, but it is very important to consider the safety and safeguarding areas.
How much is the Fostering Allowance?
We believe that our foster carers and foster children should receive a complete and comprehensive fostering payment – this provides the income to cover the child or young person’s allowances and your reward element. Sunbeam Fostering North West offers up to £750 per week per child (depending on the child’s needs). This carer payment is paid when foster carers have children in care and are placed with you. Sunbeam Fostering North West has a complete carer payment guide. Please ask us for more information.