Becoming a foster parent
Who do I contact in order to begin the application process to become a foster parent?
In order to begin and learn more about application process to become a State Certified Caregiver and foster parent, contact the Department of Social Welfare – Deputy Prime Minister’s Office where you will get an application form:
- (+268) 7648 9640
- (+268) 7648 9643
- (+268) 7648 9644
- (+268) 7648 9646
- (+268) 7648 96469
How long does it take to become a foster parent?
The time it takes to become a foster parent varies for everyone. This is a case by case situation.
Misconceptions about being a foster parent:
- You do not need to own or live in your own home
- You do not need to be wealthy
- You do not need to already be a parent or have children of your own
- You do not need to be young
- You do not need to be a stay-at-home parent
- You do not need to be married in order to become a foster parent
What can I expect once I have applied?
SCREENING AND ASSESSMENT VISITS:
- In office or at home training is given prior to approval, while the screening process for both the prospective foster parent and the child characteristics that will best fit in with the family lifestyle and ability is being carried out.
- In between classes, or while waiting for the classes to begin, the applicant can work on the other application requirements.
- After the initial processes are followed, a Home Study will be conducted in order to learn more about you, your family history and your personal relationships. This is a document your caseworker compiles which is conducted through a series of questions and interviews.
- This is a screening process where a social worker visits the prospective parents home to determine whether the home itself and parents are suitable to allow a child to stay in the home, and occurs once the prospective parents have completed their training classes and applied to foster.
- The only goal of the home study is to ensure that the child is free of any physical or emotional damage from the home or prospective parents, therefore, the child’s best interest are the priority during the evaluation.
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Generally, a home study includes:
- Family background and any relevant parenting experiences
- Education and employment
- Personal relationships and social life
- Information about your home and the neighborhood you live in
- Your reasons for wanting to foster parent and your readiness to do so.
- References from past employers and friends and/or family members will be included in the evaluation package, as well as references from community leaders and or Religious Leaders in order to better understand what types of relationships the prospective foster parents has.