.. ... . ..... On receiving an enquiry, AFS requests basic information about the applicant and forwards its literature giving you more information on fostering. An initial discussion takes place in the applicant's own home with an AFS social worker. Completion of an application form involves obtaining detailed information about them and their family and their consent for us to complete necessary checks and enquiries to ascertain their suitability to foster. AFS obtains references from The Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) Social Services Housing Department NSPCC OFSTED etc CRB checks are carried out on all members of the family aged 16 years and over and other regular adult visitors. Applicants are required to have a medical examination completed by their GP and the report is made available to the AFS's Medical Advisor for his/her comments about their health. The Aplicants are asked to identify at least three personal referees who will provide written references and be interviewed in person as part of the assessment process. A qualified social worker carries out a full assessment. He/She visits the applicant at their home, generally on 6-8 occasions, to meet and collect information about all members of their household and their experiences and skills in relation to fostering. The information obtained forms the basis of an assessment report. AFS uses the FORM F format published by the British Agency for Adoption and Fostering (BAAF) for this purpose. Preparation/Assessment training is provided to prospective foster carers which covers the responsibility of being a foster carers and working for ACORN Fostering Services. All prospective foster carers must attend this training. During the assessment process applicants will be helped to compile a portfolio of written material giving examples of their relevant experience and skills.