Foster carer checks: DBS, references & medical (UK)

Checks can feel intimidating at first, but they're standard. Providers need to confirm identity, safety, household circumstances, and your ability to care for a child. This page explains the most common checks - what they are, what you'll be asked for, and what usually affects timelines.

Quick answer The checks list
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On this page

Jump to a section.

Quick answer-> The checks list-> Documents you'll likely need-> References: how they work-> Medical: what to expect-> What affects timelines-> Questions to ask-> Related guides->
Practical tip
Keep a simple folder for ID, proof of address, and key documents - it speeds everything up.

Tip: Ask what checks can start immediately after your initial visit.

Most common bottleneck
Checks + scheduling
Best preparation
Documents ready
Best question
What delays most?

Quick answer

You'll usually go through a set of checks that cover: identity and address, DBS/background checks, references, and a medical assessment. There's also usually a home safety check and a series of assessment discussions/visits.

The best question on your first call

"Can you list every check you'll do, what you need from me for each one, and which parts typically cause delays in your area?"

What this page is (and isn't)

This is a practical overview so you know what to expect. Providers may use different forms and names for checks, but the themes are similar.

Timeline guide

If your main question is "how long does it take?", start here:

How long does it take?

The checks list (what you'll usually hear)

Providers may use different wording, but these are the common check "buckets".

DBS / background

Usually includes DBS checks for adults in the household and may include additional background checks relevant to safeguarding.

References

Written and/or spoken references to understand your support network, character and capacity to care for a child.

Medical

A medical form/assessment (often via your GP) to confirm you're well enough for the demands of fostering.

Home safety

A practical look at safety and suitability: sleeping arrangements, hazards, routines, and the overall home environment.

Remember

Checks don't exist to "catch you out". They exist to make sure placements are safe and appropriate for children and for your household.

How to make this smoother

In most cases, delays happen because forms aren't complete or references take time to respond.

Have your ID and proof of address ready.
Ask your referees in advance so they expect contact.
Keep a "what we've sent" list.
Use the checklist
If you're worried about a check

Ask the provider how they handle it and what information they need. Clarity early helps.

Documents you'll likely be asked for

Different providers ask for different combinations, but these are common.

Proof of identity (e.g., passport/driving licence) - provider will tell you acceptable options.
Proof of address (e.g., recent bills/bank letters) - again, provider sets what they accept.
Household info (who lives there, relationship info, sometimes employment details).
Housing information (if renting, sometimes landlord permission or confirmation of tenancy).
A simple organisation tip

Create one folder (paper or digital) and keep scans/photos of everything you send. It saves time when a form is resubmitted or updated.

If you rent

Renting doesn't automatically exclude you, but you may be asked for permission or stability details.

Can you foster if you rent?

References: what to expect

References help the assessor understand your character, support network, and how you manage day-to-day life.

  • Providers may ask for multiple referees (friends/family/professional). The provider will specify who is acceptable.
  • Some references are written; others may be followed up by a call.
  • Delays often happen because referees are busy or unsure what to write.
  • You can help by asking referees in advance and explaining they may be contacted.
What to do today

Make a shortlist of referees and ask them early. That single step prevents a lot of timeline drift.

Good question to ask

"Who counts as an acceptable referee for you, and how long do references typically take in your process?"

Medical: what it usually involves

Providers need to know you're physically and emotionally able to cope with the demands of fostering.

  • Often involves a medical form completed with your GP or a provider-arranged assessment.
  • The goal is to understand whether you can safely care for a child long-term and how support might be arranged if needed.
  • Timing can vary depending on GP appointment availability and admin turnaround.
  • If you have a health condition, ask the provider how it's handled - it doesn't automatically mean "no".
Useful follow-up

"How is the medical completed in your process and how long does it typically take end-to-end?"

If you're planning ahead

It helps to know the process before you start.

Process hub

What affects timelines most?

If you're trying to move things along, focus here.

DBS and checks processing time (not always controllable).
Reference response time (ask referees early).
Medical appointment/admin time (book early if possible).
Scheduling assessment visits around work/holidays.

For the broader timeline overview, see how long it takes.

Use the printable

Track what you've sent and what's outstanding.

Get the checklist

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Questions to ask (copy/paste)

These help you get a clear checklist from the provider - and avoid surprises later.

Printable checklist ->

The checklist

Can you list every check you do and what you need from me for each?
When do checks start in your process (after call, after visit, after forms)?
What are the most common delay points in your area?
Can you send this checklist in writing?

Timing

How long do DBS checks and references typically take for you?
How is the medical completed and what's the usual turnaround?
How many assessment visits are typical and over what period?
When is the next panel/decision date?
One sentence request

"Please send me your full checks checklist (DBS, references, medical, documents), plus typical timings for each stage."