We’d Love to Hear From You
If you are already a foster carer, you will know just how important the relationship with your fostering agency can be. Having people around you who listen, communicate clearly and understand the realities of fostering can make a real difference to your experience. There may come a time when you begin to wonder whether another fostering agency might be a better fit for you and your family.
Can I Change Fostering Agencies?
Yes. Every year, foster carers transfer to Ideal Fostering, and we would be more than happy to arrange for you to speak with them to share their first-hand experience of transferring to us.
We have extensive experience in supporting foster carers through the transfer process, including those who already have children and young people in placement.
There is a clear, established process for transferring, with the needs, stability and wellbeing of any child in placement remaining central throughout.
Making an enquiry does not commit you to making a decision. If you would like to learn more about Ideal Fostering, you can simply talk to us, ask questions and get a better understanding of who we are, how we work and the support we provide.
Why Transfer to Us?
Many foster carers who transfer to Ideal Fostering come to us through word-of-mouth recommendations from our existing foster carers. They tell others about the quality of support they receive, our strong therapeutic ethos and the sense of community across the agency. Our wider team reflects this approach, with dedicated therapeutic support, access to a psychotherapist and an industry-leading Home Finding Team with exceptional experience in careful, thoughtful matching. We also offer highly competitive financial support and fostering fees, among the highest in the country.
Foster carers value the stability of our team too, with very low staff turnover across social work, management and the wider agency. Alongside this, we offer regular events and activities, buddy support, foster carer support groups and listening circles. At the heart of Ideal is a friendly, welcoming family team, with an open culture where people are listened to, valued and supported without an emphasis on hierarchy.
How do I Transfer?
From your very first contact with Ideal Fostering through to approval at panel, our team will guide and support you throughout the transfer process. We understand that changing fostering agencies can feel like a big decision, so we aim to make the process as clear, straightforward and supportive as possible.
We will begin by getting to know you, your family, your fostering experience and the reasons you are considering a transfer. We will also explain the process fully, answer any questions and talk through any current placements you may have.
If you decide to proceed, a qualified social worker will complete your transfer assessment, including the necessary checks, references and information from your current fostering agency. Where appropriate, we will work closely with your existing agency and the placing Local Authority to help ensure continuity and minimise disruption for any children in placement.
Suitable applicants will be fast-tracked wherever possible, recognising the skills, experience and knowledge you already bring as an approved foster carer.
Throughout the process, you will have a named team supporting you, with regular communication, clear updates and guidance right through to panel and approval.
