How Do I Become A Foster Caregiver?
The assessment process for foster families is understandably thorough. However, it ensures families best meet the needs the children and teens who will require their support.
You can call either the B.C. Federation of Foster Parent Associations (BCFFPA) or the Indigenous Perspectives Society
Be prepared to provide a little bit of personal information such as:
- Your name and age
- The names and ages of the people who live with you
- What kind of space you have available in your home
- The children you could foster (e.g. age, gender or special needs)
Connect with the BCFFPA Monday through Friday from 8:30AM to 4:00PM at 1-800-663-9999
or reach out to the Indigenous Perspectives Society at 1-844-391-0007 x 229
The foster organization will let you know about local information and orientation sessions designed to help prospective foster caregivers make the decision about fostering.
Topics include:
- How to become a foster caregiver
- What's involved in being a foster caregiver
- Experiences from current foster caregivers
- An overview of B.C.'s foster care system
After the Info Session, prospective foster caregivers can then formally apply to become foster caregivers. Only at this step will an application be made available. If you choose to continue, complete the application with these supporting documents:
- Four personal references – one must be from a relative
- A medical assessment completed by a physician
- A criminal record check and/or review (anyone over 18 years old who will be living in the home must have a criminal record check done)
- Prior contact check
A social worker will conduct a number of in-home interviews with prospective foster caregivers and their families to assess whether they:
- Have the skills and home needed to properly care for a child
- Demonstrate willingness to collaborate with the social worker, the child’s family, and, where appropriate, the child's Aboriginal community
What Happens After I’m Approved?
Once approved, the home is made available for placements. When appropriate, a Family Care Home contract is signed and a social worker works with foster caregivers to decide which child will live in their home. Foster caregivers can say what their preference is for age and gender of a child who will ‘fit in' best with their family. Children and teens in care also need to be involved in the decision.
