Fostering offers a lifeline to children who cannot live with their birth families for a whole host of reasons, either temporarily or on a longer term basis. Foster carers give them a safe and nurturing environment and help improve their emotional and psychological well-being. There is a real shortage of foster carers throughout the UK and what puts many people off applying is the idea that the application process is very lengthy. Councils and agencies have been working hard to streamline the process, but one of the key parts of any foster carer screening is an enhanced DBS check.
What is a DBS Check?
A DBS check (Disclosure and Barring Service check) is a background screening process used to safeguard children by identifying criminal convictions or other relevant information that could pose a risk. It is used for a wide range of roles involving both children and adults who may be considered vulnerable. For foster parents, a DBS check is a legal requirement. DBS laws for foster carers mean that the intended foster parents, and all other adults over the age of 18 living in the property must have an enhanced DBS check before any children can be placed with the family.
Getting a DBS Check for Fostering
The entire process of approval as a foster parent can be quite complicated, but you will have a social worker or agency representative to guide you through every stage of the process. It is their job to keep you right about what you have to do at each stage. There are however four key stages to getting your enhanced disclosure certificate:
- Complete the application form: Provide accurate details, including identity and address history.
- Verify your identity: Submit documents such as a passport, driving license, or utility bill to confirm your identity.
- Submit your application: Your fostering agency will forward your completed form to the DBS for processing.
- Await the results: Processing times can vary, but results typically take a few weeks. Your certificate will arrive in the post.
Ongoing Requirements For DBS Checks
Fostering laws mean that DBS checks have to be updated regularly, usually every 12 months. Additionally, foster carers must notify their fostering agency about any significant household changes, such as criminal offences committed by household members.
Can I Foster With a Criminal Record?
Fostering agencies and local councils generally have no hard and fast rule which bars anyone with a criminal record from fostering. Everyone’s circumstances will be considered individually, and the agency will look at the type of criminal record, how long it has been since you were in trouble with the police, and what other qualities you have which might strengthen your appeal as a foster carer. All of this will be discussed at length during the evaluation process, so the key is being open and honest about your past and how this will affect your role in fostering. If you’re interested in finding out more, approach your local Council or fostering agency for a no-obligation discussion.
