Becoming a Foster Carer with Greater London Fostering: How to Impact the Lives of Vulnerable Children in London

Have you ever considered becoming a foster carer and making a difference in the lives of vulnerable children and young people in London? Greater London Fostering (GLF) is here to guide you through the process and help you understand what fostering involves. In this blog, we'll outline the steps you'll take on your journey to fostering, including assessing your suitability, preparing for the application process, and completing the approval process with GLF. Let's get started!

Step 1: Understanding Fostering and What It Involves

• Fostering provides temporary care for children and young people who can't live with their birth families, ranging from one night to many years.
• Foster carers offer love, support, and stability in a safe environment.
• Fostering types include short-term, long-term, emergency, or respite care.
• Foster carers work closely with social workers, schools, and other professionals to ensure the best outcomes for the child.

Step 2: Assessing Your Suitability to Foster with GLF

• GLF looks for individuals or couples who are patient, empathetic, and flexible.
• You must be at least 21 years old and have a spare bedroom in your home.
• Previous experience with children is helpful but not mandatory.
• A stable home environment and the ability to work as part of a team are essential.
• You need to have enough time in your life to care for a child.

Step 3: Preparing for the Application Process

• Research the different types of fostering and consider which suits you best.
• Speak to current foster carers for insights and advice.
• Reflect on your motivations for fostering and how it may impact your family and lifestyle.
• Gather necessary documents, such as proof of identity and address.

Step 4: Applying to Become a Foster Parent through GLF

• Contact GLF to express your interest and receive an information pack.
• Attend an initial meeting to discuss your suitability and ask questions.
• Complete the application form, providing personal, employment, and family details.
• Attend a series of meetings and home visits with a social worker as part of the assessment process.

Step 5: Completing the Approval Process with GLF

• Attend GLF's pre-approval training course to learn essential fostering skills and knowledge.
• A social worker will compile a comprehensive report for the fostering panel to review.
• Attend the fostering panel meeting where your application will be discussed and a decision made.
• If approved, you'll be registered as a foster carer with GLF and begin your fostering journey.

Becoming a foster carer with Greater London Fostering is a rewarding and life-changing experience. By following these steps and working closely with GLF, you'll be well-prepared for your journey into fostering. Remember, the team at GLF is here to support and guide you every step of the way. Get in touch today and take the first step towards making a positive impact on the lives of vulnerable children and young people in London.

Sarah's Fostering Story

Sarah, a 35-year-old single mother of two, felt a strong desire to help vulnerable children. She discovered GLF and decided fostering was the perfect opportunity to make a difference. Sarah contacted GLF, received an information pack, and attended an initial meeting to discuss her suitability. Throughout the application process, Sarah received support from GLF, attended a pre-approval training course, and participated in the assessment process. After being approved, Sarah welcomed her first foster child, Liam, into her home. With the support of GLF and her dedicated social worker, she provided a loving and stable environment for Liam.

If you're inspired by Sarah's story and believe that you have what it takes to make a difference, reach out to GLF today and start your own fostering journey. Remember, the team at GLF is here to guide and support you every step of the way!

To learn more about the different types of fostering and the payment carers receive, visit our FAQ page.

If you think you can foster, contact us today.