Role Purpose
The Foster Carer Home Check & Induction Volunteer plays an important role in welcoming new foster carers to Geelong Animal Rescue (GAR).
The initial screening and assessment of a potential foster carer will be completed by another volunteer. Once a potential carer has progressed through that stage, this role is responsible for visiting their home, completing the home check and providing an induction to GAR’s foster care processes.
The aim is to ensure the home is suitable and safe for fostering, while also ensuring new carers feel informed, supported and confident before welcoming their first foster animal.
Key Responsibilities
Foster Home Checks
- Arrange a suitable time to visit the potential foster carer’s home.
- Complete the GAR foster home check using the approved checklist.
- Assess the home environment for general safety and suitability for the type of animal the carer is interested in fostering.
- Check fencing, gates, access points and other relevant areas.
- Discuss any potential safety concerns or modifications that may be required.
- Take photographs where required for the GAR records.
- Provide clear and objective feedback to the Foster Team following the visit.
- Escalate any concerns that require further assessment or approval.
The role is not to make the initial suitability decision about the applicant. The screening and initial assessment is completed by another volunteer. The home check provides additional information to assist GAR in making an informed decision.
Foster Carer Induction
During the home visit, the volunteer will provide the potential foster carer with an overview of GAR’s foster care processes, including:
- How foster placements are arranged.
- Who to contact for different types of questions or concerns.
- Veterinary procedures and who to contact regarding veterinary care.
- What GAR provides to foster carers.
- Expectations around communication and updates.
- Foster animal management and safety requirements.
- Adoption processes and the role of the foster carer.
- What to do if a foster animal becomes unwell or there is an emergency.
- GAR’s expectations regarding social media and confidentiality.
- General foster carer responsibilities and boundaries.
The volunteer will ensure the new carer understands who their key contacts are and where to go for support.