References?

[ohoneybeeo]

I'm in the process of becoming a foster parent.
A social worker is coming next week to get the names of people who will give me a references.
I was just wondering how many I will need to give? And can one be a family member?
Thanks

[Kitsandkids]

Don't know about every LA but mine asked for 2 references and neither were allowed to be family. I think they have to have known you for at least 2 years as well. My husband and I chose one friend of mine and one friend of his. His had 2 young children, and mine works with children, so we felt they were well placed to recommend us to look after children.

[mum2tots]

By the time we went to panel we'd had to have 5 references between us. I think the norm is 2 references known you for more than 2 years and not family.

[CateringCalamities]

We had to have 6 references, one of which was my eldest son, and one my DH daughter. Social Services interviewed 2 of the other referees and also all the children, either by telephone or in person.

[ohoneybeeo]

Thanks all. He came on Friday and I had to have 2 non relative references (whom I've known for at least 2 years), and 1 family reference.

[JacobMalloy02]

After the Brighton and Hove review, many agencies require 6 references with the expectation they will physically visit 3. Good luck with you application!