Transferring fostering agency

We love to hear from experienced foster parents who want to join an agency that truly cares.

Foster parents can only be approved by one fostering agency at a time. But as a foster parent, you can choose to foster through the agency of your own choice. If you would like to transfer your approval to AFA, you will benefit from the high quality support all our foster parents receive, to enable you to provide quality care to the children who come to live with you.

With any transfer, the welfare of the child/children involved must come first.

“The support with AFA is a hundred times better. I just wish I had transferred sooner, for myself and for the children.”

Read about Lisa’s fostering transfer here

Lisa

Foster Parent, AFA Fostering

How transferring fostering agency works

The Fostering Services Regulations (2011) state foster parents can only be approved by one agency at a time.

A protocol for the transfer of foster parents between agencies has been agreed between The Fostering Network, the Joint Forum of Independent Providers and the Association of Directors of Children’s Services.

The Fostering Network Transfer Protocol (2014) (reviewed 2019) is designed to guarantee that each child either remains unaffected or will receive greater benefit when a foster parent chooses to transfer to a different agency. We fully support and subscribe to this Protocol.

A protocol meeting is held to ensure that transfers between fostering agencies are carried out in a way that will not impact the child in their foster home. Any children you are looking after will therefore transfer with you to your new approving agency, where it is in their best interest.

Why would I need to transfer fostering agency?

At AFA Fostering, we understand the critical role that foster parents play in providing a supportive, nurturing environment for children in need. We also realise that your relationship with your fostering agency is crucial in ensuring the success of your fostering journey. If you’re considering switching from your current fostering agency, here is some information as to how we may be able to meet your needs:

Excellent Support

At AFA Fostering, we ensure you receive comprehensive support. You will have access to support, advice and guidance 24/7 via an allocated Fostering Social Worker as well as out-of-hours support from a small, dedicated team.

Clear Communication

We see that clear, open communication is vital in foster care. We value transparency and ensure you’re kept in the loop at every stage.

A Focus on Specific Needs

At AFA Fostering, we see that robust matching is essential to positive outcomes and we go the extra mile to make matches that take into consideration the needs of both the child and the foster parent.

We have different levels of care arrangements which take into account the needs of individual children, while all being rooted in a foundation of therapeutic parenting.

Positive Outcomes

Perhaps you’ve heard about our success at AFA Fostering and the positive outcomes we’ve achieved for the children in our care. By joining us, you too can contribute to these success stories. We invite you to learn more about AFA Fostering, our dedication to foster parents, and our commitment and dedication to ensuring the best possible outcomes for the children and young people they care for.

Professional Development

We support learning and development throughout your fostering journey with a tailored programme of training opportunities to suit your needs, delivered by experts within the fields of child trauma.

Transferring Fostering Agency: FAQs

Can I transfer from my current fostering service?

Yes, you can transfer from either an independent or local fostering service and vice versa.

How can I change fostering agency?

At AFA Fostering, we understand that the process of transferring fostering agencies can seem daunting. We assure you that your enquiry will be treated with the utmost confidentiality and we’re here to offer our full support throughout the process, should you decide to join us.

Whether you have a child looked after in your care or not, it is essential that you inform your current fostering agency in writing of your intention to transfer. The Fostering Network Transfer Protocol sets out the protection from unplanned moves that any child in your care can expect and it also details the various stages within the process.

Throughout the transition process, we emphasise the importance of open and regular communication between all parties involved – you as the foster parent, your current fostering agency, and us at AFA Fostering.

How does AFA ensure a child’s welfare when transferring fostering agency?

During a fostering agency transfer, the child’s welfare is always our priority. We’re committed to making sure that this transition doesn’t negatively affect the child’s experience in their foster home. Our open and regular communication helps us guarantee that the child’s needs remain at the forefront, helping to avoid unnecessary strain on them.

We invite you to learn more about AFA Fostering, our dedication to foster parents, and our commitment. At the heart of everything we do is a deep empathy and dedication to ensuring the best possible outcomes for children and young people in foster care.

Where can I find out more about transferring fostering agencies?

Choosing a fostering agency is a personal decision that depends on your unique circumstances and needs. At AFA Fostering, we’re committed to providing the best possible support for our foster parents and children.

If you’d like to discuss transferring to AFA from your current fostering agency or if you have any questions about fostering in East Anglia or the Midlands please get in touch with us, or give us a ring for a confidential, informal chat, on 0333 358 3217.

Remember, at AFA, we understand the challenges of making such a transition, and we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Will my current placement be affected if I transfer to a new fostering service?

Stability for the children in care is, of course, a highly important factor. There is a set fostering transfer which we follow as best practice. If you are currently fostering children at the time you transfer foster agency, a fostering transfer protocol meeting will be arranged. You can read more about the Fostering Transfer Protocol here.

How long does the transfer take?

We work to a clear 12-week timescale for transferring foster carers, allowing enough time to complete the updated Form F assessment. Our team will support you throughout this process, keeping everything on track and ensuring your transfer is handled efficiently and with care.

Will my payments or benefits change?

After the transfer protocol meeting, an agreement will be made for any children in your care to transfer with you. You will keep the same payment, expenses, and services for the whole placement, plus you’ll get the extra benefits of being a Nexus foster carer.

Can I transfer from a Local Authority?

Yes, you can. Foster carers can transfer from a Local Authority to an independent fostering agency like ours. Many carers make this change for the additional support, training, and sense of community we provide.

If you currently have a child in placement, we’ll work closely with your Local Authority to make sure there’s a smooth transition and no disruption to the care you’re providing. Our team will guide you through each step, ensuring the process is handled with sensitivity and professionalism.

How confidential is the enquiry?

Your enquiry is completely confidential. When you get in touch with AFA Fostering to find out more about transferring, we won’t contact your current agency or Local Authority without your permission.

Our conversations are simply to help you understand what’s involved and to answer any questions you may have. You’re free to explore your options in confidence, knowing that nothing will be shared until you decide you’re ready to move forward.

Foster Carer Allowance Example - Anne

As a Parent & Child foster carer, Anne receive £52,554 per year. This is equivalent to an annual salary of £72,407.88.

Book a fostering advice call back

Select a date and time using the calendar below and our friendly fostering advisor will call you back for an initial discussion about fostering with us, and answer any of your questions.