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Checks and references
Background checks and references are a normal part of every fostering assessment. Their purpose is to safeguard children and build a complete, fair picture of your household.
What is checked
Your assessing social worker will explain what information is needed and give you an opportunity to discuss any concern openly.
You and every adult living in the fostering household must complete an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check with relevant barred-list information. Checks may also be required for other adults who will have regular or significant contact with a child.
Ask about this typeWe contact relevant local authorities to establish whether applicants or household members have previously been known to children's services. Your assessing social worker will confirm which authorities are contacted and the period covered. Older information may also need to be considered where relevant.
Ask about this typeYour GP provides information about your physical and mental health. A diagnosis, disability or prescribed medication does not automatically prevent you from fostering. The assessment considers how health is managed and whether you can reliably meet a child's needs.
Ask about this typeYour home is reviewed for safe, suitable accommodation. This may cover alarms, windows, stairs, medicines, household chemicals, garden hazards, safe storage, sleeping arrangements, pets and transport. Where changes are needed, your assessing social worker will talk them through with you.
Ask about this typeHaving pets does not usually prevent you from fostering. Animals are considered individually, including temperament, behaviour, care and likely response to children. Tell the team about every animal in the household so each one can be considered as part of your assessment.
Ask about this typeThe assessment may consider whether your household is financially stable and able to manage periods when no child is placed. This is not about expecting applicants to be wealthy. It is about making sure the arrangement is sustainable.
Ask about this typePeople who know you
References may include:
Your assessing social worker will confirm how many referees you need to provide and what employment history needs to be covered.
Common concerns
Tell your assessing social worker early. Information is considered in context: what happened, how long ago, who was affected, how it was resolved, what you learned and whether it may create a risk today.
Honesty is essential. Some offences or safeguarding findings may legally prevent approval, but not every conviction or concern produces the same outcome.
Yes. Every adult living in the household takes part in relevant assessment and safeguarding checks, even if only one person will be the primary carer.
Your privacy
Personal information must be handled in accordance with safeguarding requirements and data-protection law.
Talk it through
A previous conviction, health condition or difficult life event does not always give a simple yes-or-no answer. Speak openly with the team before deciding that you cannot apply.
Take the first step
Tell us what you are thinking and ask what matters to you. A member of our Manchester team will explain the next step without pressure or obligation.