Top fostering agencies what do they look like?

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by Katie Wright | 24th Mar 2022

OFTSED have highlighted that the best Independent Fostering Agencies (IFA) know what the commissioners (Local Authorities) and foster carers want. Here is a list of what top fostering agencies provide:

• Good support from their allocated supervising social worker and the and the agency as a whole
• Experienced and knowledgeable supervising social workers and managers
• Good practice, clear policies and procedures and guidance
• Treat foster carers as valuable members of the professional team / network.
• Time and resources. This includes:
  • Regular supervision and contact with their allocated supervising social worker
  • 24hour support
  • Comprehensive training and ongoing development
  • Access to regular support groups
  • Access to additional services e.g., health, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) etc. based on the individual needs of the child
  • Peer support and learning
  • Respite

At People Who Foster have built strong working partnerships with local authorities and we believe our foster carers should reflect the needs of children and young people coming into care.