What is a Form F?
The Form F (also called the Prospective Foster Carer Report) is a comprehensive assessment document prepared by your assessing social worker. It evaluates your suitability to become a foster carer and is presented to the fostering Panel for approval.
Think of it as your fostering CV — but much more detailed. It covers your personal history, relationships, motivations, and capacity to care for vulnerable children.
What does the Form F cover?
The assessment typically explores:
- Personal information — your background, education, employment history
- Family and relationships — current relationships, family dynamics, significant life events
- Health — physical and mental health, including a medical assessment from your GP
- Your home — safety, space, neighbourhood, and the bedroom available for a child
- Motivation — why you want to foster, your understanding of what's involved
- Parenting capacity — your ability to manage behaviour, set boundaries, and promote development
- Support network — friends, family, and other carers who can offer support
- DBS checks and references — enhanced criminal record checks and personal references
How long does it take?
The Form F assessment typically takes 4-6 months. During this time, your social worker will visit your home multiple times, interview you (and your partner, if applicable), and gather references and background checks.
How to prepare
The best thing you can do is:
- Be honest and open — assessors value transparency over perfection
- Reflect on your childhood, relationships, and parenting views before sessions
- Gather key documents early (ID, proof of address, employment details)
- Complete pre-assessment training (like the Skills to Foster programme)
- Keep a portfolio of evidence as you progress
How FosterReady helps
FosterReady's training programme is designed to collect Form F evidence as you progress through the 9-week academy. By the time you reach Panel, you'll have a digital portfolio that maps directly to the Form F requirements — saving weeks of preparation and giving assessors confidence in your readiness.