There are a lot of questions we get from people asking if they need any previous work experience in order to take up fostering.
We have compiled a list of possible queries that you might have relating to the skills needed and experience to foster.
Should you have any previous experience in fostering or childcare?
Having experience in looking after a child or fostering is extremely important and comes in handy when you step into fostering. Generally, people passionate about fostering do have some experience looking after children under their care, be it in their professional capacity as parents or the children of their close ones.
When you decide on becoming a foster carer, you are generally expected to have some experience in caring or looking after a child. Once, your IFA (Independent Fostering Agency) is satisfied with your feedback, your next step is to go ahead and determine whether you are skilled enough to become a foster carer.
Do I need any qualifications?
Fostering does not require you to have any qualification or certification proving your skillset. However, what we expect from you is that you should be patient, loving individuals who are passionate about becoming foster carers and enhancing the lives of children placed under care.
How would I know if I am skilled enough to foster?
Nationwide Fostering hosts several training sessions, including the ‘Skills to Foster’ course that you must complete before being approved as a foster carer. We strongly believe that no matter how experienced and skilled you are, there always remains a scope to learn and experience new things, especially when you are into something as complex as fostering.
Our courses are designed to upskill you that expands your horizons about fostering and upskill you as a better parent.
I am not sure if I am the right fit to become a foster carer?
Deciding on whether you are the right fit for fostering rests upon your inherent personality and attributes. As a foster carer, you should be a patient, loving individual who empathetically looks after children who need your care and support. As long as you have these attributes, there is no other reason you should be doubting yourself 🙂