How To Choose Between Fostering Agencies in Wales

Choosing to become a foster parent is a life-changing decision. Before you can begin your fostering journey, you must first decide which foster care agency is right for you. With so many fostering agencies in Wales to choose from, it can feel overwhelming. In this guide, we’ll help you navigate the options and make an informed decision that best suits you and the children you hope to support.

Why are there so many different fostering agencies in Wales?

Wales has a diverse range of fostering agencies, each offering different levels of support, training, and services. 

At Family Fostering Partners, we are a family run agency dedicated to ensuring our foster carers receive the best support possible. We offer extensive training, 24/7 support and guidance, a dedicated Link Worker, regular visits and a close-knit community of foster parents. Our goal is to provide a nurturing environment for both foster parents and the children in their care.

Is it better to foster through an agency or local authority?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question—choosing between fostering with a local authority or an independent fostering agency in Wales depends on your individual needs, expectations, and the type of support you require.

• Local Authority Fostering: Local authorities are responsible for all children in care within their area. Foster carers working directly with a council may receive more frequent placements. However, the level of support, training, matching considerations, and financial allowances can vary considerably from one council to another.
• Independent Fostering Agencies (IFAs): Independent foster care agencies often provide additional training, financial support packages, and a far higher level of support. If you want to work with an independent fostering agency in Wales that provides extensive support and guidance, and who prioritises careful matching.  Family Fostering Partners could be the right choice for you. Read more about fostering with Family Fostering Partners.

 

How to choose a fostering agency in Wales?

If you’re considering fostering with an independent fostering agency in Wales, here are some key factors to help you decide which one is right for you:

1. Level of Support – Look for an agency that offers round-the-clock support, extensive training, and access to resources that will help you thrive as a foster parent. 

At Family Fostering Partners, we provide an incredibly high level of 24/7 support and training, as well as full access to Foster Talk, who provide free legal and medical advice, as well as discounts, savings and more. 

1. Financial Allowances – Different agencies offer varying financial support. Ensuring that you understand the allowances and benefits provided by each agency is crucial. 

At Family Fostering Partners, we offer competitive allowances to ensure our foster parents are well compensated for their important role. We also offer a bespoke financial transition scheme #BeThereToCare to support your transition into fostering. 

1. Reputation and Reviews – Research the experiences of current and former foster parents. Testimonials, word-of-mouth recommendations, and independent reviews can provide valuable insight. 

Hear testimonials from our foster parents, and from Davin, a care experienced individual who was fostered by Family Fostering Partners foster parents. You can also view our CIW report; giving you a full and unbiased report of the services we offer. 

1. Specialist Services – Some fostering agencies in Wales focus on specific types of fostering, such as placements for children with disabilities, or therapeutic placements. Choose an agency that aligns with your fostering aspirations. 

At Family Fostering Partners, we offer a range of fostering types including short term care, long term care, respite care and parent and child fostering. This ensures that our foster parents can choose the type of fostering that suits them best; and as their circumstances change, so too can the type of fostering they provide.

1. Community and Peer Support – Fostering can be challenging, so having a strong community of fellow foster parents to lean on can be invaluable. 

As an Independent Fostering Agency, we host regular events, support groups, and social gatherings to help our foster parents to connect, share experiences, and support one another.

1. That Gut Feeling – Choosing a fostering agency in Wales is a big decision, and while research, reviews, and practical considerations all play a part, sometimes it comes down to that gut feeling. You want to feel assured that the agency you choose truly cares—not just about the children, but about you as a foster parent too. 

At Family Fostering Partners, as a family run agency, we believe fostering is a partnership, built on trust, support, and a shared commitment to making a difference. From your first conversation with us, we want you to feel welcomed, valued, and confident that you’re in the right place. That gut feeling matters—because when you foster with the right foster care agency, you’ll always have the guidance, encouragement, and resources you need to succeed.

With Family Fostering Partners, you’re never just a ‘number’, you’re an important and valued member of our fostering family.

 

Family Fostering Partners: Leading Fostering Agency in Wales

At Family Fostering Partners, we understand the importance of carefully matching children with foster parents; it’s important that every child is placed in a home where they feel safe, supported, and understood. By prioritising thoughtful, well-planned matches, we help create stable, nurturing relationships that allow children and their foster parents to thrive.

At Family Fostering Partners, we take the time to truly get to know our foster parents considering factors such as their personality, lifestyle, interests, and family make up to ensure a strong and lasting match. Our dedicated team provides guidance throughout the matching process, ensuring that foster families feel confident and prepared.

When fostering with Family Fostering Partners, an independent fostering agency in Wales, our foster parents will never feel pressured or forced to accept a child into their home that they do not feel is a strong match. Find out why you should choose us as your fostering agency.

“There are so many horror stories that you hear, but it’s not like that, it’s really not. When fostering with Family Fostering Partners, I’ve felt really supported the whole time” explains Nat, a foster parent with Family Fostering Partners. 

Take the First Step Today

Deciding to foster is a significant commitment, but you don’t have to make the decision alone. We encourage you to do your research, speak to your friends and family, and find the right fostering agency in Wales for you.

If you have any questions or want to explore whether Family Fostering Partners is the right agency for you, get in touch with us today. Use the ‘Talk to Us’ feature in the bottom right-hand corner, or ask us a question to start the conversation. Together, we can create brighter futures for children across Wales.