Frequently Asked Questions

We have tried to keep our answers brief; if they do not match your circumstances,  please speak to one of the Capstone Vision team.

1. What is the difference between an independent foster care agency/provider (IFA or IFP) and the local authority?

   Independent foster care agencies work in partnership with the local authority to provide foster care placements that the local authority has not been able to provide for a variety of reasons. This might mean that they don’t have any current vacancies or that they cannot offer the resource required for that particular placement.

2. Who can apply to be a foster carer?

   In theory, anyone who has a home and a spare bedroom can become a foster carer. In practice, we look for certain qualities and a capacity to commit to a child (see ‘What we look for in carers’ in the first section)

   Some experience of children is important. This could include bringing up your own children or work related experience.

   Initial discussions will cover suitability and comprehensive training is provided.

3. Will a criminal record preclude me from becoming a foster carer?

   A criminal record will not necessarily preclude you from fostering. A lot depends on the circumstances, timescale and surrounding background. Offences are assessed on an individual basis and confidentially.

   There are some criminal offences that will preclude you from becoming a foster carer. If you, your partner or a member or your household has convictions that relate to sexual or violent offences towards children you will be unable to foster.

   Applicants will be required to undergo a criminal record check before becoming a foster carer, so early disclosure of any offences is essential.

4. How long will it take to become a foster carer?

   This will depend on individual circumstance and experience and generally takes approximately 3-4 months. We start the formal assessment process upon receipt of your completed application form.

5. Can I transfer from another agency/local authority and how long will it take?

   At Capstone Vision we are happy to receive applications from carers who wish to transfer and recognise that there are often valid and entirely understandable reasons for this. The process is quicker than the initial assessment process and generally takes 2-3 months.

6. I am single, can I still be a foster carer?

   We welcome single carers. There are some children who come into care who will benefit particularly from being given the focused attention that a single carer is able to provide.

7. I rent my property, can I still foster?

   Renting does not preclude you from fostering, but you may need permission from your landlord.

8. Do I need a spare room to foster?

   You will need a spare room for fostering. Foster carer's own children will sometimes share in order for there to be a spare room. However, we will assess that your own children have appropriate space and are happy with this arrangement before we consider assessment.

9. I work, can I still foster?

   The role of foster carer is a demanding and often full-time one, which increasingly requires a professional level of motivation and commitment.

   Although dependent on the type of placement, we generally require that one carer is either at home, or their work is flexible enough to provide the high standard of care we feel is appropriate.

   You may need to discuss this matter further with a member of our team.

10. We have small children, can we still foster?

    When considering placements we need to look carefully at how they will fit alongside your birth children. Inevitably this will have an effect on the number of potential placements available to you.

    You may need to discuss this matter further with a member of our team.

11. Are there many checks to be completed during assessment?

    We carry out a number of checks at different stages of the assessment process.

    •    Criminal record check
    •    Health assessment
    •    Local authority social services check
    •    References from employers (if applicable)
    •    Health and safety assessment of your home

    You will also need to provide proof of identity, valid driving licence, car and building and content insurance (where applicable).

12. Will I need training before becoming a foster carer?

    Foster carers are expected to attend initial and ongoing training as part of their professional development.

    A two day course on the basics of fostering will need to be completed before any foster placement can take place.

13. Will my partner need to be checked and attend training?

    If you are living with your partner, they will need to be checked and attend basic training as they are part of the fostering household and will have involvement in supporting you, even if you are the main carer.

    Anyone living in your home over the age of 18 will also need to have a criminal record check.

14. How much will we receive as an allowance?

    Our carers receive a competitive weekly allowance in the range of £345 to £450 (depending on the needs of the child) together with paid holiday/respite and other benefits.

15. Do I have to pay tax on my earnings?

    Foster Carer Relief came into effect in April 2003. You will be exempt from tax as a self employed person if your receipts do not exceed the qualifying amount. The reality is that very few foster carers pay any tax.

    For more information on the qualifying amount, you will need to contact the Inland Revenue.

16. How much choice will I be given about placements?

    We have a careful matching process at Capstone Vision which takes into account your criteria and experience before any placement is put forward to you.

    All placement referrals will be fully discussed with you. You will receive as much information as we are given, although the initial information for some placements is limited and therefore we try to help you to make an informed decision based on the information available. You will only take placements that you feel comfortable are right for you and your family.

17. What kind of support can I expect if things go wrong?

    Please see the ‘Support’ section of ‘Becoming a foster carer’

    You are part of a team and are not expected to cope on your own.

    Your supervising social worker is responsible for supporting you and your placement. You will also have access to our Emergency Duty Team by telephone 24/7. 
     

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