Why is it important to choose the right Agency?

Whilst there is a desperate shortage of foster carers throughout the UK, the Government continue to advise those considering becoming a foster carer to approach several agencies before they make their final decision. What is the reason for this?
Well, there are over 700 Independent Fostering Agencies throughout the UK and they all differ in subtle ways. They offer different training, support and remuneration packages. They may be looking for foster carers who are able to offer support to specific groups of children and young people; for example, fostering teenagers or young parents and their babies. For this reason anyone making enquiries into fostering should be sure that they agency they choose meets their individual needs and that they are happy with their choice.
But with over 700 agencies in the country this is an overwhelming task. Where do you start? Who is the best agency to meet your needs?
Every year around 15% of approved foster carers choose either to transfer fostering agencies or give up fostering altogether due to problems that have arisen between them and their IFA. This can often be due to not comparing the packages available to them from different IFA’s before they applied. Choosing the right agency can be the difference between a long and rewarding fostering career and a difficult relationship which might ultimately lead people to leave fostering completely! Given the length of the assessment process, no one takes the decision to move agencies lightly and as you are only able to foster for one agency at anytime it pays to choose the right one!

How we can help you choose a fostering agency.

Choosing the right Agency is an important first step in Fostering

This is where the Fostering Connections service can help! We have access to a nationwide database of IFA’s and can match your individual needs with agencies in your area who most closely meet your requirements. The Agencies will then contact you to discuss the package they are able to offer you; finally you choose the agency you are most happy with and the process of becoming a Foster Carer begins formally.
Our service is free to potential carers; simply complete our application form and we will do the hard work for you!