Transfer to Choice

You can make a change even if you already foster with an Independent Fostering Agency or your Local Authority. Foster Carers have the right to make the decision to move to another independent fostering agency, and we are ready to help you to make that move. If you choose to transfer to Choice Fostering, you will be provided with all the support you need. We’ll help you through the process and when you become part of our family you can expect to receive the highest of quality training and support you need.

 

Can you transfer?

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You have the right to change fostering agency or move from a Local Authority whether you have children in placement or not. Changing from one foster agency to another is an easy process. It has been made a great deal easier by the issuing of a Transfer of Foster Carers Protocol, which covers any and all factors involved in the transfer. The protocol begins with the recognition that Foster Carers have the right to freedom of movement between fostering services.

 

How to switch foster agencies

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If you’re looking to change fostering agencies to Choice Fostering, we ensure that our transferring process is current and proactive by reviewing and revising the protocols regularly. This is because there are modifications from time to time in the legislation and regulations governing UK’s foster provider services, it is essential that any actions such as changing foster agencies are responsive to the changes in the rules and regulations.

 

The Transfer of Foster Carers Protocol England 2014 (reissued 2015) sets a standard for good practice guidelines to follow if an approved carer wants to transfer foster agency. The principles focus on the welfare of any child in placement rather than on financial factors. Any moves must be in the best interest of the child or young person in care and ensure continuity of care for children in placement.

 

If a Foster Carer wishes to transfer, he or she should inform their current agency in writing of their desire to make a move. Once the current fostering agency has been notified, the recruiting fostering service may begin its assessment. This is because a carer cannot be approved by more than one agency at the same time, so the recruiting service cannot give final approval until the foster parent has officially resigned from their current agency. Approval is automatically terminated 28 days after a written notice of resignation.

 

If there is a child in placement, the carer must also give written notice of their intention to transfer to the placing authority. It is possible that a child’s placement will continue with the same carer.

 

Reasons carers may change foster agencies

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There are many reasons for a carer to make the decision to change foster agencies. It could be a matter of finding a service that is a better fit for your fostering abilities and skills or it could be a matter of wanting to move to another area of the country.

 

Not all independent foster care agencies are the same. However, it is important to know that the rules and regulations are the same for all agencies and Local Authorities across the UK. The differences between services is typically in their size and environment. Some are nationwide, others serve specific geographical regions, whereas there are also registered charities and other companies.

 

Regardless of which fostering service you are with, the demographics are the same. Bear this in mind if your motivation for transferring foster agency begins with the placements you get. For instance, there are more older children in care than younger ones. Any differences to be expected from a change tend to be in the allowances, training, support, and network offered.

 

Find out more about why you should transfer to Choice Fostering today, or Contact Us to get the ball rolling.  

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