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Can you foster a child with a criminal record?

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When applying to become a foster carer, it’s important to understand the fostering requirements, and the disqualifications of becoming a foster carer. Often the question arises, “can I foster with a criminal record?” Find out everything you need to know about applying for foster care with a criminal record.

What disqualifies you from being a foster parent?

During the assessment process of becoming a foster carer, part of the assessment will determine if you have any previous criminal conditions which would directly affect your desire to foster. These types of criminal offences could be offences against children, violent offences or sexual offences – which would likely disqualify you from being able to foster children. Your past offences will be assessed in great detail to determine that the right decision is made regarding your eligibility as a foster carer.

Can I foster with a criminal record?

However, having a criminal record itself does not necessarily mean you will be instantly disqualified from fostering. There are many variables to take account when considering fostering with a criminal record, such as the nature of the crime, the severity, how long ago the crime took place and what type of crime it was.

As part of the assessment process to become a foster carer, you will have a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. This is a check which will be conducted to determine if you have any offences or crimes you have committed which have led to having a criminal record. This check will be completed on anyone in your household who is over the age of 18.

If you are looking to foster with a criminal record, it’s best to explain this straight away at the beginning of the application process. The DBS check will reveal this information anyway, so if you let the assessors know from the get-go, they can understand how best to proceed with your application.

If you’re ready to start your career in foster care, learn more about our fostering recruitment process now. Alternatively, get in touch with a member of our expert team for more advise around fostering with a criminal record.

Thinking of fostering?

If you’ve got any questions or would like to find out more about fostering with Capstone, fill out the form below.
An experienced fostering advisor from your local area will then be in touch.

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