Do I get to meet the child before they move in?

Many prospective foster carers wonder whether they can meet a child before the placement takes place. The answer depends on the type of fostering, the child’s circumstances and the safeguarding procedures that local authorities and independent agencies follow. This article explains the process, outlines what to expect, and shows how the meeting fits into the wider fostering journey in Manchester and its surrounding areas.

What fostering is and who it helps

Fostering is a form of care in which a child is placed in a safe, supportive family environment while their legal guardians are unable to provide that care. The child remains the legal responsibility of the local authority or an independent agency. Fostering provides a stable home, continuity of education and emotional support for children who might otherwise be in residential care or, in some cases, in the care of relatives.

Children who benefit from fostering include:

• Those in the care of the local authority due to neglect, abuse or parental incapacity.
• Children whose parents are temporarily unable to care for them because of illness or legal restrictions.
• Young people who have been removed from family care but are not yet ready for permanent placement.

Foster carers give children a chance to experience a family life, build trusting relationships and develop life skills that support their transition into adulthood.

Benefits and responsibilities of foster carers

Foster carers receive a range of benefits and support. They are paid an allowance that covers the child’s living costs, education and health needs. In addition, carers are offered training, supervision and emotional support to help them cope with the challenges of fostering.

Responsibilities include:

• Providing a safe, nurturing environment.
• Ensuring the child attends school and receives any medical care required.
• Maintaining clear communication with the local authority or agency.
• Keeping accurate records of the child’s progress and any concerns.

Foster carers are also expected to respect the child’s cultural, religious and personal identity, and to support them in maintaining contact with their birth family when appropriate.

Eligibility and assessment process

To become a foster carer, you must meet certain eligibility criteria set out by the Children Act 1989 and the Children and Social Work Act 2017. Typical requirements include:

• Being over 18 years old.
• Having a suitable, safe home with at least one spare bedroom.
• Passing a background check that includes DBS, police checks and, where relevant, a child protection register check.
• Being able to demonstrate a good understanding of child development and safeguarding principles.

The assessment process is thorough and involves several stages:

1. Initial application. You submit a formal application to the local authority or chosen agency.
2. Home visit. A social worker or agency representative visits your home to assess suitability.
3. Interview. You discuss your motivations, experience and expectations.
4. Background checks. Comprehensive checks are carried out to ensure your suitability.
5. Training. You complete mandatory training before the assessment is finalised.

Only after all these stages are successfully completed can you receive a foster carer licence. The time it takes to complete the assessment can vary but typically takes a few months.

Support, training and supervision provided

Once you are authorised, you will receive ongoing support. Training programmes cover topics such as:

• Safeguarding and child protection.
• Managing challenging behaviours.
• First aid and emergency procedures.
• Understanding the child’s emotional and psychological needs.

Supervision is delivered through regular meetings with a social worker or agency case manager. These meetings allow you to discuss the child’s progress, raise concerns and receive advice on best practice.

In addition to formal training, many agencies offer peer support groups, wellbeing sessions and respite care to help foster carers manage stress and prevent burnout.

Allowances and payment structure explanation

According to official UK fostering guidance and local authority policies, foster carers receive an allowance that is divided into several components:

• Basic allowance. Covers general living costs for the child.
• Additional allowance. For children with special educational needs or health conditions.
• Holiday and transport allowances. To cover travel costs and holiday expenses.

The exact amount is determined by the child’s age, needs and the local authority’s rates. It is not a flat rate but a tailored figure that reflects the child’s requirements. All allowances are paid on a monthly basis and are subject to review if the child’s circumstances change.

How to apply for fostering in Manchester

Applying to foster in Manchester follows the same framework as the rest of the UK but has some local nuances. The Manchester City Council, together with the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, manages fostering services. Here’s a step‑by‑step guide:

1. Visit the Manchester City Council website and locate the fostering section.
2. Download and complete the application form, providing details about your home, employment, and any previous experience with children.
3. Arrange a home visit with a social worker to discuss suitability.
4. Undergo the mandatory background checks.
5. Attend the required training sessions, which are often available online or at local community centres.
6. Once approved, you will receive a foster carer licence and be matched with a child.

For more detailed guidance, see the How to Become a Foster Carer in England Step‑by‑Step Guide.

Local fostering context and agencies including Salford, Bolton, Oldham, Stockport

Manchester’s fostering landscape is diverse, with both local authority and independent agencies operating in the city and its surrounding boroughs. Some of the key agencies include:

• Manchester Fostering Services. Operated by the city council, offering placements for children aged 0‑18.
• Salford Independent Fostering Agency. Provides specialist placements, including for children with complex needs.
• Bolton Foster Care. Focuses on short‑term and respite fostering.
• Oldham Fostering Network. Works closely with local schools and health services.
• Stockport Foster Care. Offers both residential and family placements.

Each agency follows the same safeguarding standards but may have slightly different approaches to training, support and matching. Prospective carers should research each agency’s reputation and the type of placements they offer before deciding where to apply.

Common challenges and realistic expectations

Fostering is a rewarding yet demanding role. Some common challenges include:

• Adjusting to the child’s behavioural patterns and emotional history.
• Balancing foster responsibilities with work or other commitments.
• Managing the emotional impact of seeing a child’s progress and setbacks.
• Ensuring the child’s needs are met within the constraints of the allowance.

It is important to have realistic expectations. The fostering journey is not a quick fix but a long‑term commitment that requires patience, resilience and a willingness to adapt. Many carers find that the support structures—training, supervision and peer groups—are vital in maintaining their wellbeing and providing the best care for the child.

FAQs

Do I get to meet the child before they move in?

Yes, in most cases you will meet the child during the assessment or placement stage. The social worker or agency will arrange a meeting in a neutral setting, such as a community centre or a public park, where you can observe the child’s behaviour and interact with them in a controlled environment. This meeting is crucial for both parties to gauge compatibility before the child moves into your home.

What happens if I cannot meet the child before the placement?

If circumstances prevent an initial meeting—for example, if the child is in a high‑risk situation—the agency may rely on other forms of assessment, such as video conferencing or a home visit with a professional observer. However, most agencies prioritise face‑to‑face contact to ensure a good match.

Can I meet the child after they have moved in?

Yes. Regular visits are part of the fostering process. The child’s social worker will schedule routine home visits, and you can also arrange informal check‑ins to build trust and support the child’s adjustment.

Is the meeting mandatory for all types of fostering?

For short‑term or emergency placements, the meeting may be brief or omitted if the child’s safety requires immediate action. For long‑term and therapeutic placements, a thorough meeting is standard practice to establish a foundation for the relationship.

What should I prepare for the meeting with the child?

Prepare a welcoming environment, bring a small toy or book, and be ready to ask gentle questions about the child’s interests and routine. Avoid leading questions; instead, let the child guide the conversation. The agency will also provide guidance on what to discuss and how to handle sensitive topics.

For further reading on fostering shortages and how agencies are adapting, see The Latest Foster Care Shortage in the UK Explained.

To understand the differences between local authority and independent fostering agencies, check out Local Authority vs Independent Fostering Agency – Which Is Right for You?.

For a deeper dive into the training and support structure for foster carers, read Foster Carer Tax, Qualifying Care Relief and Record Keeping.