These are very thorough, as we need to obtainindependent verification of your suitability to look after vulnerable children. The following references will be undertaken or documents seen (if relevant) on all applicants:

• Criminal Records Bureau (CRB)
• Medical
• Health Visitor (for applicants with under 5s)
• Mortgage statement (for applicants who own their home)
• Schools (people with school-age children)
• Local authorities (over the past 5 years)
• Current employer (and any previous experience of working with children)
• Fostering and adoption agencies (if previous application made)
• Independent referees
• Marriage/divorce certificates
• Immigration papers (for those without a British passport)
• Interview with family member
• Interviews with adult children
• Interviews with former foster children
• Interviews with former partners (significant relationships)
• Certificates of qualifications
• Driving licence, MOT, car insurance
• House insurance.

If there are any reasons why you are unable to provide the documentation listed or some people cannot be interviewed, you should discuss this with your social worker.

A Health and Safety check of your accommodation will also be carried out and recommendations made.

If you have a dog, we ask you to complete a questionnaire about its temperament and living arrangements.