As you might expect caring for other peoples children, is a task which is heavily regulated. The main legislative framework relating to the provision of foster care comes from:

• The Children Act 1989.(CA 1989)
• Fostering Service Regulations 2002 (FSR 2002)
• Care Standards Act 2000 (CSA 2000)

Underpinning all of the above is an attempt to protect and promote the best interests of children and young people.

At HFS we take our role in protecting children seriously, and will make every effort to ensure that the people we approve are suitable to care for children.

We are required to carry out police checks on all applicants and anyone over the age of 16 living with, frequently visiting or staying overnight with the applicant. The assessment of potential carers also involves a medical examination by your GP and checks with your Local Authority.

Provided there is a favourable response to all of the above anyone can potentially become a foster carer. We need carers from various backgrounds, and you do not need any formal qualifications. We provide comprehensive training and ongoing support to you and your family, which starts from your first contact with us.

You must be able to provide a bedroom which can be used exclusively for the child. We need people who have the space and time in their lives to welcome children into their homes.

You do not need to own your home but you would need the permission of the owner. You do not need to live in a house; many of our carers live in flats. You do not need to have a partner to become a carer, but if you do have a partner it must be a joint application.

As you might imagine a lot of the children and young people referred to us may be worried, anxious, angry or scared. We are looking for people with the ability to understand how this may influence their attitude and behaviour, and why children who have been neglected or abused still want to see their abusers.

We need people who can offer children and young people the opportunity to experience stable family life, and who can help to rebuild young lives.

It is important to remember that the rewards to be gained from fostering can be immeasurable and we also give you a generous allowance.