How Long Does It Take to Become a Foster Carer?

Becoming a foster carer is one of the most rewarding decisions you can make. It allows you to provide stability, love, and care to a child who needs a safe home. But one of the first questions most people ask before starting is simple — how long does it take to become a foster carer?

The short answer is: it usually takes between four to six months from your first enquiry to official approval. However, every person’s journey is slightly different. The process depends on how quickly you provide documents, complete training, and go through background checks.

Let’s break down what happens during this time and what you can expect at each step.

Understanding the Foster Carer Application Process

Becoming a foster carer in the UK isn’t an overnight process. It’s designed carefully to make sure you’re ready for the responsibility and that children are placed in the best possible homes. The process involves several steps: enquiry, assessment, training, and panel approval.

Each stage has its own timeline and requirements. Some people move through faster, while others take longer due to personal circumstances, paperwork delays, or scheduling issues.

Step 1: Initial Enquiry and Home Visit (1–2 Weeks)

The first step is simple — you reach out to a fostering agency or your local council expressing interest. This is usually done online or by phone. You’ll have a brief chat with a fostering advisor who will explain the process and answer your questions.

If you meet the basic eligibility criteria — being over 21, having a spare bedroom, and being in good health — the agency will arrange an initial home visit. During this visit, a social worker will come to your home, talk about your lifestyle, and ensure your home is suitable for a child.

After this visit, if both sides agree to move forward, you’ll be invited to start the official application.

Step 2: Application and Assessment (3–4 Months)

This is the longest stage and involves a detailed assessment called the Form F assessment. A supervising social worker will be assigned to you and will visit your home several times to get to know you and your family.

They’ll discuss your background, relationships, work, parenting experience, and reasons for fostering. You’ll also need to provide documents such as identification, references, and medical reports.

During this stage, several checks take place:

• Enhanced DBS check (criminal background)
• Health and medical check
• References from friends, family, and employers
• Financial assessment
• Safety check of your home environment

The purpose isn’t to judge your life but to ensure children are placed safely and you’re fully supported. On average, this step takes 12 to 16 weeks, but delays can happen if background checks take longer or if extra information is needed.

Step 3: Pre-Approval Training (2–4 Weeks)

Before you’re approved, you’ll need to attend a short training course. It’s often called Skills to Foster or Preparation to Foster training.

This course gives you an honest understanding of what fostering is really like. You’ll learn about topics such as child development, trauma, attachment, safeguarding, and working with professionals. It’s also a great way to meet other new applicants and hear real-life experiences from current foster carers.

Most agencies run these sessions over a weekend or spread them across several evenings. After completing the training, you’ll have a clearer picture of what fostering involves and whether it’s the right path for you.

Step 4: Fostering Panel and Approval (2–4 Weeks)

Once your assessment and training are complete, your social worker prepares a detailed report summarizing everything about you, your skills, and your motivation to foster.

This report is presented to a fostering panel — a group of experienced professionals who review your application and meet with you (usually in person or online).

The panel will ask a few questions to understand your readiness and then make a recommendation. If approved, you officially become a registered foster carer and can start receiving placement offers.

This step usually takes two to four weeks depending on when the next panel meeting is scheduled.

Total Timeline: What to Expect

When you add everything up, here’s what most people experience:

Stage	Typical Duration
Initial enquiry & visit	1–2 weeks
Assessment & checks	12–16 weeks
Training	2–4 weeks
Panel & approval	2–4 weeks
Total time:	4–6 months

That’s the average timeline, but it’s flexible. Some applicants complete the process in as little as three months if everything goes smoothly, while others might take up to eight months if additional checks are needed or there are scheduling gaps.

Factors That Affect the Timeline

Several things can speed up or slow down your fostering application.

1. How Quickly You Complete Paperwork

Your response time plays a big role. Submitting forms, ID proofs, and references promptly helps your agency move faster.

2. DBS and Medical Checks

Sometimes, background or medical checks take longer depending on how quickly third parties respond.

3. Scheduling with Your Social Worker

Your social worker needs to visit multiple times, so coordinating calendars can affect timing.

4. Training Availability

If your agency’s training sessions are full, you might need to wait for the next one.

5. Personal Circumstances

Life events like moving house, job changes, or family issues can temporarily delay progress.

The key is communication. Stay in touch with your social worker, and they’ll guide you through any hold-ups.

Can the Process Be Faster?

Some fostering agencies offer “fast-track” programs for applicants who have prior experience working with children, such as teachers, social workers, or care professionals.

These programs may shorten the assessment period slightly, but all standard checks and training must still be completed. No agency can skip legal and safeguarding steps, as children’s welfare always comes first.

What Happens After Approval?

Once you’re approved, you’ll be matched with a child or young person who fits your home and lifestyle.

Your supervising social worker will stay in regular contact, offering guidance and support. You’ll also receive ongoing training to help you develop new skills as a carer.

If there’s a delay in matching you with a child, don’t worry — it’s normal. Agencies work carefully to ensure the right match for both the child and the carer.

Tips to Make the Process Smoother

• Stay organised: Keep all your documents ready and respond to requests quickly.
• Be honest and open: Transparency helps your social worker understand you better.
• Attend training early: It gives you insight and confidence.
• Ask questions: If anything feels unclear, reach out. Agencies appreciate proactive applicants.
• Stay patient: The process is thorough for a reason — to protect children and support you properly.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a foster carer is a journey that takes time, care, and dedication. On average, expect around four to six months from your first enquiry to final approval. While the process may seem long, every step ensures you’re fully prepared to provide a safe, loving environment for a child in need.

The best thing you can do is start the conversation. Reach out to your local council or fostering agency today, ask questions, and begin your journey toward changing a child’s life.