What makes a good fostering assessment?

Strong fostering assessments have several things in common; a few are listed here:

Strong checks and references

The checks and assessment components of the assessment help to ensure that the applicants are safe in the company of vulnerable children. The checks include ID checks, and checks on the home (include home conditions and safety around pets). References are sought from friends, family and employers.

Any ambiguous or concerning information is explored further and detailed risk assessments are completed when required.

Exploration of the applicant’s background and personality

The social work interviews ensure that the applicants understand what the fostering task entails and that they’re well prepared for the role. Social workers should present the information in a way that is easy to understand, with little repetition and should be clear about how the information is relevant to the fostering role.

Training, skills, and experience

All fostering providers should provide preparation training during the assessment stage; the assessments include information about the training that has been attended and how this has prepared the applicants to foster.

Consistency in the information

Fostering assessments are very long so there are sometimes inconsistencies in the information – usually dates or names. Sparks Fostering has designed a bespoke assessment to reduce the likelihood of this error. These types of errors can sometimes undermine the assessment’s reliability in the panel members’ eyes.

‘Respectful uncertainty’ of the social worker

It is evident in the strongest fostering assessments that the assessing social worker has worked hard to find any vulnerabilities or concerns within the assessment; assessors who maintain ‘respectful uncertainty’ are more likely to present a reliable assessment and it will be received more favourably by panel members.

Clear strengths, vulnerabilities and strong analyses

Strong assessors clearly state the vulnerabilities and strengths within the information provided; furthermore, they clarify how and why these impact on the fostering role.

Identification of gaps and training needs

When any vulnerabilities are identified, assessors explain how they will be addressed and monitored. This could mean an earlier review of the carer’s approval, increased supervision, additional training, or limitations in the carer’s approval range.

The voice of the applicant

The best assessments provide clear and comprehensive information about the fostering applicants, to the point that panel members feel that they know the applicants after reading the assessment. When panel members meet the applicants at panel, the panel members should feel that the people they are meeting are just as they expected. This adds further validity to the assessment and confidence in the assessing social worker.