Understanding DBS Checks for Foster Parents
November 3rd marks Orphan Sunday, a day to raise awareness and reflect on the needs of vulnerable children as well as the vital role that foster families play in providing loving homes.
Fostering is vital because it provides children who cannot live with their birth families with a safe, nurturing environment. Many children in foster care face trauma and uncertainty, and a stable, loving foster home can significantly improve their emotional and psychological wellbeing.
Foster families offer support, guidance, and a sense of belonging, helping children to heal and thrive. This blog explores why DBS checks are necessary for foster parents and how to navigate the process.
What is a DBS Check?
A DBS check is a crucial background check that helps safeguard children. It reveals any criminal convictions or relevant information that may pose a risk.
For foster parents, these checks are mandatory, as the fostering regulations require criminal record checks for anyone applying to become a foster carer, as well as all household members aged 18 and over.
What DBS do foster parents need?
An Enhanced DBS check with Barring is required for those looking to foster. This also includes other members of the household over the age of 18.
The process of obtaining a DBS Check
1. Contact a fostering organisation: Reach out to your fostering agency or local authority for guidance on the application process.
2. Complete the application Form: Fill out the DBS application with accurate details, including your identity and address history.
3. Verification of identity: Provide documents for identity verification, such as a passport or utility bill.
4. Submit your application: Your fostering agency will handle the submission to the DBS once your application is complete.
5. Wait for the results: Processing times can vary but typically take a few weeks. The agency will keep you informed.
6. Review of the results: Once complete, the agency will discuss the results with you. Any concerns will be addressed collaboratively.
Ongoing requirements and household changes
Fostering regulations stipulate that DBS checks must be updated at regular intervals, typically no longer than 12 months. Foster carers must also notify their fostering service of any changes in their household that could affect their suitability. This includes criminal offences committed by any adult member of the household.
When a young person transitions from being looked after to becoming an adult member of the household (a “staying put” arrangement), a new DBS check is required. It’s advisable to obtain this check before they turn 18, allowing it to be considered during the foster carer’s approval review.
Why DBS Checks matter
DBS Checks are vital for ensuring the safety of children in foster care. They not only confirm the suitability of foster parents but also provide reassurance to birth parents and the wider community.
Most DBS Checks do not reveal surprising information, as any previous concerns should have been addressed in the young person’s care plan and risk assessments.
Understanding and raising awareness of the fostering process, and the importance of DBS Checks, opens the conversation to a difficult subject and normalises the safeguarding process.
Contact eSafeguarding today for guidance on obtaining a DBS check here.