JOIN OUR FAMILY
Joining our agency is a straightforward process, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you’re new to fostering or an experienced carer looking to transfer, we’ll ensure your transition is smooth and stress-free.
Get in Touch
The first step is to contact us! Our friendly team will answer all your questions, provide detailed information about our agency, and help you decide if we’re the right fit for you.
Get in touch either by completing our application form, using our contact us option, or calling our team on 0203 479 5344
Already a foster carer, don’t worry the transfer process is pretty straight forward.
Our team will discuss the assessment process and arrange for one of our experienced assessing Social Workers to visit you in your home and begin the assessment process. The assessment process includes;
- Capturing your skills, experience and knowledge.
- Help you prepare for fostering or transferring to Unique Village successfully if you are already fostering.
- You will be provided with comprehensive training to ensue you feel confident and prepared for the fostering journey.
The Purpose of the Fostering assessment
The Purpose of the Fostering assessment ensures children’s safety and wellbeing. This is required for all foster parents, it evaluates foster parents ability to support children’s adverse early life experiences and complex needs. This process helps to bring out your patience, empathy and resilience to make a meaningful impact.
The Process
Once your application is accepted, you’ll be assigned an assessing social worker who will carry out the assessment. This includes a series of visits over approximately 12 weeks.
Assessment will discuss topics such as your motivation to foster, family relationships, parenting and children, significant others; childhood experiences, health, support network and professional background. There will also be safeguarding and reference checks completed as part of the assessment.
Its normal to feel nervous about sharing personal experiences, especially difficult ones. These conversations will allow us to understand your strengths, resilience and how you may be able to support a child placed with you and the challenges as a foster parent.
As part of your assessment journey you’ll attend Skills to Foster training. This course equips you with the foundational skills and knowledge needed to care for a child. You’ll also have the chance to meet other applicants and hear from experienced foster parents who can share their stories and advice.
Once the assessment is completed, you’ll review and sign the completed assessment. Your completed assessment will be presented to an independent panel. They’ll review your application and make a recommendation to our agency decision-maker, who will confirm your approval.