Transfer fostering agencies
How do you see your foster parent role? Is it a job for you? Is it a lifestyle, a calling, or something else entirely? Everyone approaches fostering differently - whatever it does mean to you, it needs to be something you are 100% happy in.
There are times, for various reasons, this might not be the case, and changing fostering agency could be the best step for you. Whether you need more support, better communication, or a fostering agency that aligns with your values, switching can help you continue providing the best care for the children you welcome into your home.
Perhaps you are looking for a new challenge, or maybe you have become disenchanted with your current agency. Whatever your reason for wondering about your future and visiting our website, you can be reassured that carers have every right to transfer fostering agency and move to another independent fostering provider.
Experienced Foster Carer Looking to Move?
As an experienced carer you will already know how rewarding but challenging the role you do is, but also, how important it is, to work with an agency that makes you feel valued and respected. Sadly, the stories we hear from foster parents, as well as recent research from Fostering Network in their State of the Nation report, highlights that far too often, carers feel undervalued and ignored, with 16% of foster carers expressing a wish to transfer fostering agency.
We speak every week with carers who feel that they are just a number in large national agencies. Their voices are not heard, and their needs ignored. Family Fostering Partners can promise you a very different experience. Remember, you have every right to transfer to another organisation and should not be pressured by your current agency or Local Authority to stay.
If you're an experienced foster carer considering a move, understanding how to transfer foster care agency can help make the process feel more manageable. At Family Fostering Partners, we value our carers and ensure they feel supported, respected, and heard. Sadly, many carers find that larger fostering organisations don’t provide the personalised support they need. If you feel undervalued or your needs aren’t being met, changing fostering agency could be the right step.
How to Transfer Foster Care Agencies
The process to transfer fostering agency will usually take about three months. At Family Fostering Partners, we do our best to make the assessment process as unobtrusive as possible. Having been through it once before, it will generally be quicker and easier the second time.
If you do choose us, will make sure that you receive the very best advice and help from the first contact you make with Family Fostering Partners. We will work as quickly as we can to transfer fostering agency, allowing you to get on with the important stuff. In everything that we do, the welfare of any child you may have in your care will be paramount.
All Fostering Agencies, including Local Authorities, subscribe to the Fostering Networks Transfer Protocol which emphasises the basic principle that all carers have the right to move freely between fostering services and that your current fostering agency is obliged to help you in the process.
Steps to Changing Fostering Agency:
- Initial Discussion: Contact us for a confidential chat about your reasons for changing fostering agency and what you are looking for in a new one. We will explain how we work and what support we can offer.
- Informing Current Agency: Before formally starting the transfer process, you must notify your current fostering agency of your intention to transfer. If you are caring for a child, discussions will take place to ensure minimal disruption to their placement.
- Assessment and Application: You will need to complete a new application and undergo an updated assessment. This process is usually quicker than your original assessment since much of your experience and training will carry over.
- References and Checks: As with any fostering approval, when changing fostering agency, we will conduct background checks, references, and home visits to ensure you continue to meet the necessary fostering standards.
- Approval and Handover: Once your assessment is completed, your approval will be transferred to Family Fostering Partners. Your current agency will be involved in discussions to ensure a smooth transition, especially if you have children placed with you.
- Ongoing Support: After the transfer is complete, you will become part of our fostering community, gaining access to training, ongoing support, and a dedicated link worker to help you every step of the way.
How Easy is it to Transfer Fostering Agency?
The process of changing fostering agency is usually straightforward, especially if you don’t have children in placement. In this case, transferring involves a new assessment, background checks, and approval from the fostering panel, steps you’ve already completed before, making them quicker and easier this time around. On average, the process to transfer fostering agency takes around three months, but it can sometimes be completed sooner depending on individual circumstances.
If you do have children in your care, the process is still manageable but requires a bit more coordination to ensure placement stability. A Transfer Protocol Meeting will be arranged early on to assess a child’s needs, and to agree on the best way to ensure that any child in your care can remain with you while you transfer fostering agency.
Regardless of your situation, your current fostering agency is required to cooperate under The Fostering Network’s Transfer of Foster Carers Protocol. This ensures that changing fostering agency is a supported and structured process, protecting both your rights as a foster carer and the well-being of any children in placement. Read about the protocol.
How to Choose the Right Foster Care Agency for You
Learning how to transfer foster care agencies is only a fraction of the task. You need to be certain that the new agency you’re choosing will be the right fit for you. We would hate for you to have to go through this process a second time.
Here are some key steps to help you transfer fostering agency smoothly while making the best choice for your future as a foster carer:
- Research Different Agencies – Look into what each agency offers, including support, training, and allowances. Speak to other foster carers if possible to get real insights.
- Ask the Right Questions – Before you start the transfer process, speak with prospective agencies and ask about their approach to fostering, their level of support, and how they handle placements.
- Compare Support and Benefits – Not all fostering agencies offer the same level of support. Ensure your new agency prioritises you and the children you care for, providing the right training, financial support, and 24/7 assistance.
- Consider Their Stability and Reputation – Choose an agency with a strong reputation and a good track record of supporting their carers long-term.
- Understand the Transfer Process – Once you decide to transfer, your new agency should guide you through the process, ensuring minimal disruption to any children in your care.
Choosing the right fostering agency is crucial to avoid having to transfer again. Research different agencies, compare their support and benefits, and ask key questions to ensure they align with your needs. A strong agency will offer reliable support, financial stability, and guidance throughout the transfer process, making the transition as smooth as possible. To guarantee you’re making the right choice when changing fostering agency, check out our dedicated blog on how to find the best fostering agency.
Why Choose Family Fostering Partners?
Changing fostering agency is a big decision, and choosing the right one can make all the difference to your experience as a foster carer. At Family Fostering Partners, we offer a supportive, family-focused approach while maintaining the highest levels of professionalism. We take the time to truly understand the needs of our foster carers, ensuring you receive the guidance, training, and support necessary to thrive in your role.
We make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. As one of the leading independent fostering agencies in Wales, we prioritise well-matched placements, ongoing development, and 24/7 support for our foster carers. Whether you're looking to transfer fostering agency or start fresh, our dedicated team will guide you every step of the way. Our comprehensive training programmes, peer support networks, and financial allowances are designed to help you feel valued and confident in your fostering journey.
If you're considering making a move, we’re here to help. Read more about why choose us as your new fostering agency.
Ready to Transfer Fostering Agency?
If you're considering changing fostering agency, we're here to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. At Family Fostering Partners, we value our carers and provide the support, training, and guidance you deserve. Whether you're looking for better communication, stronger backing, or an agency that truly listens, we’re ready to help.
Take the next step today. Get in touch for a confidential chat, and let’s discuss how we can support you in making a seamless transition. Fill out our contact form - we’ll be with you every step of the way.
Changing Fostering Agency: Your Questions Answered
Will my fostering allowance change if I transfer fostering agency?
Fostering allowances can vary between agencies. Before transferring, we will provide full details of our financial support, including allowances, additional benefits, and any retainer payments for specialist placements.
What support will I receive during the transfer process?
You will be assigned a link worker who will guide you through the process, answer any concerns, and ensure a smooth transition. We also provide 24/7 support, training, and ongoing guidance throughout your fostering journey.
What if my current agency discourages me from transferring?
It is your right to transfer fostering agency if you feel it’s the best decision for you. Agencies must follow The Fostering Network’s Transfer Protocol, which protects your right to move freely between providers. If you experience any pressure or discouragement, we can support you in handling the situation professionally.
How long does it take to transfer fostering agency?
Transferring to a new fostering agency typically takes around 3 to 6 months, depending on your circumstances and how quickly the process moves. If you have a child in placement, the transfer process involves discussions with your current agency and local authority to ensure continuity of care. Without a placement, the process can be quicker.