Stage One Documentation
This is the full list of documents and tasks that we require you to complete in Stage One (or Stage Two Fast Track).
Please take your time, reflect on your learning, and email each item to your Social Worker as you complete it.
Stage One Agreement - Add in your names at the top of the document, read and sign at the bottom.
DBS info for applicants - this guidance gives examples of what documents can be accepted for your DBS check. You will need to take ID documents and proof of address to preparation training on all three days and a Social Woker will check them whilst you are there.
Preparation Training Self-Evaluation form - This should be completed by each individual applicant following preparation training.
Chronology - This should be completed by each individual applicant, providing as much detail as possible about significant life events and ensuring any gaps in employment are explained.
Self-Assessment Form - This should be completed by each individual applicant, with as much detail as possible.
Example Family Tree - This should be completed jointly for applicants who are part of a couple. Please use this format and level of detail. You only need to go back one generation, or two if relationships were significant.
Example Ecomap - An ecomap is a representation of your support network. This should be completed jointly for applicants who are part of a couple. Please use this format and level of detail.
Financial Assessment - You will need to provide monthly figures for income and outgoings, even where you pay for something annually or where your income over a year is changeable. For example, if you pay council tax annually, you will need to divide this by 12. You will also need to work out your income during adoption leave as a total over the year and divide by 12 to find a monthly amount. You may need to do some research about things like the cost of local nurseries, nappies and wipes or local children’s groups. Calculate adoption leave and post adoption leave expenses based on a child who is somewhere in the middle of your desired age range. Similarly, if you would like to consider siblings, you will need to take this in to account.
Health & Safety Assessment - Complete this and send to your Social Worker before they visit your home. They will do a home check and discuss any issues with you.
E-learning - Each applicant should use this guidance to create an account on first4adoption. Complete the e-learning modules and send a screenshot of your scores to your Social Worker.
Early Permanence module - It is mandatory for all applicants to watch the stage one early permanence video and complete the below early permanence learning log so that we can be confident that you have made an informed decision about whether you wish to offer this route or not.
Early Permanence Learning Log - You will need to complete this learning log after watching the stage one early permanence video.
Blank Learning Log - It’s important that you continue your learning throughout the process. You will need to evidence this by documenting things you have read, listened to, watched or discussed on a learning log.
Dog assessor details - You will need to have an independent dog assessment if you have a dog. Please contact one of our recommended assessors.
Pet assessment - If you have pets (that aren’t dogs), you will need to complete a pet assessment. Your Social Worker may add their observations once they have completed a home visit.
Overseas Police Checks – If applicable, use this link: Guidance on the application process for criminal records checks overseas - GOV.UK. Costs are your responsibility.
