how it works

the process

the process

You’re thinking more about starting your journey towards being a foster parent. But how long does the process take in Neath Port Talbot?

Here’s what you can expect.

bachgen ifanc yn siarad i'w theulu

the first step

The first step in your fostering journey is probably the most important one: sending us an email or picking up the phone and letting us know you’re interested.

family playing with dog on the beach

the home visit

Once you’ve been in touch, we’ll start the process of getting to know you with a visit to your home. If this isn’t possible, we’ll arrange a video call instead.

At this stage, we want to get to know you, your situation and find out more about where you call home. It’s important for us to build a relationship with you.

family talking around the table

the training

The first stage of your training and development teaches you more about fostering, so you can be certain it’s the right path for you. It’s also a chance to meet other new foster carers at the same stage of their journey. This initial training course is called “Preparation to Foster”, or sometimes “skills to foster”. It takes place over a few days, or evenings.

It’s about building knowledge, connections and valuable networks that last.

family smiling and sitting on steps

the assessment

Once we’ve visited you, we’ll start the assessment part. This is by no means a test, but an opportunity for our team to speak with your friends and family. We’ll answer any questions you and your family may have and consider some of your strengths and vulnerabilities with our social work team.

An assessment is all about preparing you for the challenging yet rewarding journey into fostering.

boy smiling and running on the beach

the panel

The panel is made up of professional social workers, community specialists and independent members, experienced and knowledgeable about fostering, who will review your assessment.

It’s important to remember the panel won’t be accepting or rejecting your assessment, but rather just consider it from a different perspective. They’ll make individual recommendations based on your unique situation.

foster Family walking along Aberavon seafront Port Talbot

the foster care agreement

Once your assessment is approved by our panel, you’ll then receive a foster care agreement. This is a uniquely tailored agreement which will set out what it means to you to be a carer. It will include your daily responsibilities, the support and guidance you’ll get from us as well as the services on offer.

Woman and young girl using computer to make video call

ready to take the first step?

get in touch

  • If you’re looking to request an information pack, ask a question or make the first step to becoming a foster carer, we’re here to help. Simply fill out the form and a member of our dedicated team will be in touch with you shortly.