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Our mission is to support & advocate for people with criminal records to be able to move on positively in their lives. Find out more

Fostering

Who is disqualified from fostering?

A person would usually be disqualified from acting as a foster carer for a local authority if s/he or any adult member of the household has been cautioned or convicted of an offence against a child which involves:-

  • violence or bodily injury (other than common assault or battery)
  • cruelty (to a child under 16)
  • indecency
  • abduction
  • the supply of Class A drugs
  • the importation/possession of indecent photographs of a child under 16
  • a sexual offence against a child

How will my criminal record be dealt with?

Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service checks will be undertaken when you apply to become a foster carer but having a criminal record won’t necessarily disqualify you from becoming a foster carer.

Whether you meet the required fostering criteria depends on the type and circumstance of the offence and how long ago it was committed. Should you have a caution or criminal conviction, it is imperative that you are open and upfront about it. It will be discussed at a very early stage in the application process.

Further information

Foster Line

Becoming a Foster Carer (Gov.UK)

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Photo of Head of Advice, Debbie Sadler
Debbie Sadler
Head of Advice

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