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Foster Care references and checks

Fostering Providers (Agencies) have to undertake rigorous checks by law to ensure the suitability of foster carers to look after vulnerable children and young people.

These include:

  • Criminal Records Bureau checks on all people in the household over the age of sixteen years and any other people who would come into regular contact with a child or young person that was placed;
  • Local Authority checks;
  • References from employers, particularly where there is contact with children or young people;
  • General Practitioners reference and medical examination;
  • Two or three personal references. The referees will be interviewed and generally, must have known you for at least three years, not be related to you and if you are a couple, know both of you;
  • Interviews will be carried out with all adults in the household and if appropriate with birth children who may live elsewhere.

Choosing the best Fostering Agency

Before enquiring or applying to become a foster carer, make sure that you choose the right agency for you and your family by using our free fostering agency matching service. Contact us today.

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Any further questions you would like answered please contact Simply Fostering through our contact us form.

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