How long is long!!!!!!

[Catfriend]

Just wondering how long it took people to complete the F1 form and take to panel?? My SW said it could only take about 4/5 months!!!!!!!

[scarlettsmummy2]

Took us about that, but then four more months before a suitable placement.

[Catfriend]

Hi scarlettsmummy2. Thanks for replying. I thought 4/5 months was too good to be true cos I know sw are very busy. Was the 4 months wait for a suitable placement or otherthings in the way?? I'm going with the LA and I find it hard to think I will have to wait 4 months for a placement as there is lots of children in care!!!

[scarlettsmummy2]

We were offered other children, but I felt their needs were to complex for us as I also had an eighteen month old daughter. I am glad we waited- we have had our fc for three years and will have him until he leaves care in four years time all being well!

[Catfriend]

Ahh that's great scarlettsmummy2. I am hoping to leave my current job to dedicate more time to the foster children. I'm not sure where I would stand financially tho if I had to wait 4 month.

[scarlet5tyger]

It took about 9 months for me. I'd expect it to take longer than 4 months if you've just started the process, simply because things tend to stop at Christmas!

I waited to hand in my notice until I was approved at panel and already had a child waiting for me when I left work. I'd discuss it with your ASW as they should have a vague idea of whether you're likely to face a wait (obviously they don't have a crystal ball so can't give guarantees).

If its any comfort I've only had an empty bed for just over 3 weeks in all the time I've been fostering - and even then that was because we were waiting for a baby to be born.

Good luck!

[scarlettsmummy2]

I also didn't hand my notice in until I knew we had a suitable placement. Be warned- the case files you will be given are absolutely heart breaking, but you have to use your head not your heart if you are giving up your career. For example, we were initially offered two boys, 13 and 11. I would have taken them in a heartbeat, but luckily my husband put some common sense to it. I wouldn't have been able to cope as they had severe behavioural problems, and ultimately could have been a risk to my own toddler. Good luck!

[plainjayne123]

Can't believe you would be able to adopt 11 and 13 year olds with a toddler at home. Our LA will only give you children at least 2 years younger than your youngest birth child an that seems very sensible.

[plainjayne123]

How long it takes to get a placement will depend on the range of children you are willing to care for.