FAQs

Frequently asked questions about becoming a foster carer

How can I become a foster carer?

If you want to become a foster carer, your first move is to contact Care Pathways and tell us that you are interested in becoming a foster carer.

Before we accept anyone as a foster or kinship carer, we undertake thorough checks of personal history. This might include your health, any child protection issues, serious traffic offences, and any criminal history or domestic violence records. We also talk to personal referees. This is not intended to invade your privacy but to ensure children and young people are placed in a safe, positive and stable home.

Can I choose the child I will care for?

We work closely to match children and foster/kinship carers to find suitable placements that meet everyone’s needs.  You can express your preference of age group, male or female, and we will discuss the particular child’s needs with you to make sure you are comfortable with the placement.

How long does it take?

Due to the many steps involved, it takes on average three to four months while your application is assessed. Care Pathways staff will keep you informed and updated on a regular basis.

Is there training involved?

Yes. We provide you with training and guidance before you become a foster carer and during your time as a carer. Foster carer training is presented in a number of ways including home visits, online and face-to-face sessions. We also encourage support networks and contact between other foster/kinship carers so advice and support is always available.

What is the difference between fostering and adoption?

Unlike adoption, fostering is not about permanent care. Fostering gives a child a home for as long as they need it but the aim is to reunite the child with their family as soon as that is a safe and secure option. Sometimes, because of individual family circumstances, children or young people may stay in care until they are 18 years of age. Care Pathways’ staff and the Department of Communities (Child Safety Services) aim to maintain contact between the child and biological family where possible and support the family to establish a suitable home environment.

In most circumstances, contact with the family is encouraged throughout the child’s upbringing. This helps the child and their parent’s stay connected and makes it easier when they reunite.

Is there financial assistance available to carers?

Financial support is available and an additional allowance is paid for those who care for children and young people with high and complex needs. However, this only covers some of the costs of being a foster/kinship carer.