Foster Carer Interview Questions UK: 8 Real Questions and What Interviewers Want

Applying for a Foster Carer job in the UK? Here is what you are likely to be asked. These questions come from our Foster Carer question bank of 16 questions, written for UK employers at mid-level level.

Eight Foster Carer interview questions, and what the interviewer is thinking

1. What do you understand about the fostering assessment process and what happens at panel?

Why they ask: They want to know you understand what approval involves and are committed to it.

2. What does safer caring mean, and how would you put it into practice in your home?

Why they ask: Foster carers must manage safety for children and themselves in a family home.

3. What is delegated authority, and why is it important for foster carers?

Why they ask: It affects day-to-day life for children in care, and carers must know their limits.

4. What is therapeutic parenting, and how would you respond to a child whose behaviour is a result of trauma?

Why they ask: Many children in foster care have experienced trauma, and carers need effective approaches.

5. What would you do if an allegation were made against you or someone in your household?

Why they ask: Allegations are a recognised risk in fostering, and carers need to react correctly.

6. A child who has recently moved in refuses to go to school, shouts and says they hate you. What do you do?

Why they ask: They look for patience, empathy and practical problem solving in everyday fostering situations.

7. Tell me about a time you managed challenging behaviour from a child or young person.

Why they ask: They want to hear how you apply patience and strategy in real situations.

8. Why do you want to become a foster carer, and how would fostering affect your own family?

Why they ask: They need to know your motivation is sound and that your household is prepared.

A sample answer to question 1

What do you understand about the fostering assessment process and what happens at panel?

As I understand it, after an initial enquiry and home visit, there is a skills to foster course and then a detailed assessment, usually carried out by a social worker over several months. It covers my background, childhood, relationships, health, finances, home and support network, and it includes references, DBS checks, medical checks and local authority checks for everyone in the household over 18. This is written up in what is often called the Form F, which I would be able to read and comment on. The assessment goes to a fostering panel, made up of independent members with social work, medical and care experience, who may ask me questions and then recommend approval, usually specifying the number, age range and type of children I can care for. The agency decision maker then makes the final decision. It is personal and sometimes challenging, but I would approach it openly, because it exists to keep children safe.

Common mistake to avoid: Seeing the assessment as an intrusion; Being unprepared to discuss your own history

Want the rest?

Full model answers, key points and common mistakes for all 16 questions are on the Foster Carer interview questions page. The first five are free, no sign-up needed.