When Is It Time To Transfer Fostering Agencies in Wales

Choosing the right fostering agency to partner with is one of the most important decisions a foster parent can make. A good agency provides not only the support you and the children in your care deserve, but also makes you feel heard, valued, and respected. However, sometimes foster parents may feel their current agency no longer meets their needs or expectations. If you’re wondering whether it’s time for a change, here’s everything you need to know about transferring fostering agencies in Wales.

Reasons for transferring fostering agencies in Wales

There are many valid reasons why a foster parent might consider switching fostering agencies in Wales. Some of the most common include:

• Lack of support or communication: Foster parents who feel unsupported, especially during challenging times, often look for agencies that prioritise regular support and 24/7 assistance.
• Mismatch in values: A fostering agency's ethos and culture should align with yours. If there's a disconnect, it can be hard to feel like part of the team.
• Better training and development opportunities: Unlike Family Fostering Partners, some agencies do not offer extensive training, support groups, and events to help foster carers grow.
• Geographical convenience: If you move or your agency doesn’t have a local presence, it might make sense to transfer to one that’s more accessible. Learn more about fostering in Wales with FFP.
• Agency instability or restructuring: Changes in management or ownership can affect the level and consistency of support.

Whatever your reason, it’s important to know that transferring fostering agencies in Wales is entirely possible — and often simpler than you might expect.

Signs it's time to transfer foster care agencies

Sometimes it’s not a single issue that prompts a transfer, but a growing sense that things aren’t quite right. Here are some signs it might be time to explore other fostering agencies in Wales:

• You feel isolated or unsupported in your role: At Family Fostering Partners, we provide regular opportunities for our foster parents to meet and connect – as well as support from a dedicated Link Worker who will support you and your family, advocating on your behalf. We also provide fully paid membership to Foster Talk; they are an external provide that give free medical, legal and financial advice as well as exclusive discounts and savings.
• Your values no longer align: At Family Fostering Partners, children are at the heart of everything we do. After over a decade of supporting foster parents, our values have never waivered. As our name suggests, we work in partnership with our fostering families, treating our foster parents as equal, valued team members.
• Your agency doesn’t seem proactive in matching children with your skills: At Family fostering partners, we understand the importance of careful matching for both our foster parents and the children they may go on to support. Read more about our matching process.
• You’re not able to access the training you need: At Family Fostering Partners, your link worker and our training manager will help to identify any extra support or training that might benefit you. Each of our fostering families have a bespoke training plan suited to the needs of their family and the children in their care; unlike other fostering agencies in Wales where a ‘one size fits all’ approach may be used.
• You’ve been thinking about transferring for a while and feel stuck: We understand. You can have a confidential conversation with us about your worries and feelings, and we can answer your questions or offer our own advice. Click the ‘talk to us’ button in the right hand corner to start the conversation.

Don’t just take our word for it, here’s what CIW have to say about the care, support and training that we offer to our fostering families…

How to transfer fostering agencies in Wales

The process of transferring to a different fostering agency is guided by a national protocol to protect the best interests of children and foster parents. Here’s how it typically works:

1. Contact your new agency: Get in touch with us to have an initial, confidential conversation.
2. Initial home visit: We will arrange a home visit to get to know you and explain the process in more detail. We will answer any of your questions openly and honestly and leave you with all of the information you need to make an informed decision.
3. Assessment and approval: You’ll undergo a shortened assessment process and have to complete a few checks such as your DBS. Your assessment will then be presented to panel.
4. Approval with new agency: Once approved, you’ll begin your new journey with your chosen agency.

What is a transfer protocol meeting in fostering?

A transfer protocol meeting is a key part of the process when switching fostering agencies in Wales. It ensures transparency, communication, and continuity of care for any children you have living with you.

This meeting involves your current agency (if applicable), the agency you’re transferring to, and the local authority. The goal is to:

• Confirm the reasons for the transfer
• Discuss any children currently in your care
• Ensure a smooth handover with minimal disruption

If you don’t currently have a child in placement, the process can often move faster. The meeting helps ensure that everyone involved agrees on and understands the transition plan.

How long does it take to transfer fostering agencies?

The length of time it takes to transfer fostering agencies in Wales can vary, but generally it takes around three months.

At Family Fostering Partners, we aim to make the process as smooth and supportive as possible, keeping you informed at every stage and providing a dedicated member of staff to guide you through the transfer process.

Thinking about transferring fostering agencies in Wales? 

At Family Fostering Partners, we understand the decision to transfer is never taken lightly. If you’d like to explore whether we might be a better fit for you and your family, we’d love to have a confidential conversation.

Contact us today to learn more about our team, values, and the support we offer to every one of our foster parents.