Frequently Asked Questions

Will previous convictions prevent me from fostering?

A previous criminal conviction may not necessarily disqualify you from fostering, it would depend upon the nature of the conviction and when it occurred. It is standard for us to undertake enhanced Criminal Record checks at an early stage in the application process. It is important that you are honest about any convictions you may have with the allocated social worker so we can decide whether or not it will affect your application. Any information disclosed is kept confidential.

Can a foster child share a bedroom with my own child?

A foster child needs to have their own bedroom, it is not appropriate for them to share a room and it is not fair on your own child to share their space with someone they don’t know. At times it may be agreed that foster children who are in a sibling group may be able to share a room together.

Can a foster carer work?

Abacus Fostering believes that to provide stability, one foster carer would ideally need to be home on a full-time basis, however, where children attend school it may be agreed to work school hours. As a Foster Carer, you will always need to be mindful that you will be expected to adjust your arrangements to meet a child / young person’s need, for example, if they were sick and could not attend school, or you needed to attend a school assembly or plays etc., you would need to take time off work as you would with your own children.

I can’t drive, can I still foster?

As long as you don’t mind getting the bus! It would be an advantage if you drive. However, at Abacus Fostering, we believe that as long as you are able to take children to and from school and appointments, attending meetings and training as may be required then you should be able to be a foster carer.

Can a single person foster?

A single person can be considered for fostering. We will take into consideration your working hours and whether or not you can be flexible with work, as well as whether or not you can do the school run and complete other fostering tasks as may be required to meet the needs of the child.

Do I have to undertake references?

As part of the Fostering Regulations, all fostering agencies are expected to undertake various checks of potential foster carers. These checks include local authority checks, police checks (DBS), personal and employers’ references and other checks as may be required. We will, therefore, undertake these checks as part of your assessment.

Want to know more about fostering?

Get in touch to learn how Abacus can help you with fostering.