Choosing a foster agency is one of the most important decisions you’ll make on your fostering journey. The right agency can provide exceptional support, training, and guidance that makes all the difference to both you and the children in your care. However, not all agencies are created equal, and sometimes you might need to consider making a change.
What Makes a Good Foster Agency?
A quality foster agency should feel like a true partner in your fostering experience. Look for agencies that offer comprehensive initial training programmes and ongoing professional development opportunities. The best agencies don’t just tick boxes—they invest in your growth as a foster carer and provide regular refresher courses on topics like trauma-informed care, behaviour management, and working with birth families.
Communication is absolutely crucial. Your agency should be responsive when you need support, offering 24/7 helplines for emergencies and regular check-ins during placements. You want to feel confident that if a crisis occurs at 2am on a Sunday, someone will be there to help you navigate it.
Financial transparency matters too. Reputable agencies will clearly explain their fee structure, allowances, and any additional support payments available. They should also help you understand what expenses you can claim and ensure payments are made promptly and reliably.
Red Flags to Watch For
Trust your instincts if something doesn’t feel right. If an agency pressures you to accept a child without adequate information about their needs, that’s a significant warning sign. Good agencies provide detailed background information and ensure you feel prepared and supported before any placement begins.
Poor communication is another red flag. If your supervising social worker is consistently unavailable, doesn’t return calls promptly, or seems disorganised, this could indicate systemic problems within the agency. Similarly, if training feels outdated or inadequate, or if you’re not receiving regular supervision meetings, these are serious concerns.
Financial irregularities should never be ignored. Late payments, unclear fee structures, or reluctance to discuss financial arrangements openly can indicate an agency that doesn’t have its house in order.
When It’s Time to Consider a Change
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, an agency relationship simply isn’t working. Perhaps your needs have evolved since you first started fostering, or maybe the agency’s standards have slipped over time. You might find that their approach to matching children with families doesn’t align with your preferences, or that promised support hasn’t materialised.
If you’ve raised concerns with your agency and seen no improvement, it may be time to explore other options. Similarly, if you feel unsupported during challenging placements or notice that other carers are leaving the agency, these could be signs that change is needed.
Making the Switch
Changing agencies needn’t be daunting. Many foster carers successfully transfer fostering agency, often finding much better support and opportunities elsewhere. Research potential new agencies thoroughly, speak to their current carers if possible, and don’t be afraid to ask detailed questions about their approach and support systems.
Remember, you’re not just choosing an agency—you’re selecting a partner who will support you in providing the best possible care for vulnerable children. Take your time, ask the right questions, and trust your judgement. The right agency is out there, and finding them can transform your fostering experience for the better.