How to Choose a Fostering Agency That’s Right for You

If you’re an aspiring foster carer or hold an interest in fostering children, maybe you’re unsure how to choose a fostering agency. There are so many and several different types too, so where exactly should you start? Let’s look at some of the critical things to consider:

When it comes to choosing a fostering agency, there is no definitive guide. But there are some things you should think about carefully. Here are a few pointers to help you decide which type of fostering agency is best for you.

Choice in Everyday Life

Making choices is a big part of our human experience. Think, for a minute, about a typical day in your life. No special day, no specific circumstances, not a day of any particular significance. Just an ordinary day.

Clothing, shopping, eating, social networking and relaxation will all have been chosen by you according to your personal preferences, selected because they seem appropriate to the day and in keeping with your interests and personality. You will have made specific choices which you feel comfortable with and which chime with the day ahead of you.

Inner Guidelines

The same inner guidelines operate when you decide about more significant issues; a partner, school for your child, a holiday destination or a house-move. You know you feel more at ease with some people than with others.

It’s well documented that we instinctively respond to people who are sympathetic to our way of looking at things, our approach to life, our sense of fair play and morality. We’re drawn to those who share a common ethos which reflects our ideas, drives, and attitudes. These factors can be involved in choosing a fostering agency, too.

Choices You Might Make as a Foster Carer

Choices are involved when you decide to become a foster carer. There are differences between the various fostering agencies. The pay and conditions are reported to be more attractive when you foster with an independent agency. On the other hand, younger children with less complex needs are often placed with foster carers through local authority services.

Finding the agency or local authority that’s right for you involves taking the time to do some personal research. Don’t see your journey into fostering as a one-sided affair where it’s ‘all about the child’ either. It’s about you, too!

It’s a ‘given’ that anyone entering the fostering arena has good intentions, a selfless impulse and a sense of wanting to do something worthwhile. That’s great and to be applauded, but it’s important to acknowledge your particular interests, personal strengths, and experience.

If you are considering how to choose a fostering agency, practical considerations matter too. Family commitments, energy levels, accommodation and support networks should all be taken into account.

Finding a Fostering Agency That's a Good Fit

You might prefer an independent fostering agency rather than a local authority. There are some differences between the two, which might help you to decide. It’s a good idea to make a list of your priorities before you start looking for an agency or local authority.

Having a face to face meeting is essential because it will enable you to get a feel for the quality and style of an organisation. Most agencies will suggest some kind of informal meeting to you. This gives you the chance to get your questions answered and for them to get to know you and your aspirations.

When you meet with someone from a foster agency, don’t be shy about asking questions; you could be about to invest a great deal of time and energy (both emotional and physical) in your new role. You owe it to yourself, your family and the children you foster to provide a placement which is the most appropriate ‘fit’ for everyone involved.

Things You Might Want to Consider

There are a lot of things you might want to ask when you approach your local authority or foster care agency, this will largely depend on your expectations and circumstances. The following pointers can be helpful:

Will I get comprehensive training?
Is the organisation large and impersonal?
Do I feel ‘in tune’ with their stated aims and goals?
Will there be continuity of supervision by an experienced social-worker?
Can I take breaks or holidays from fostering?
Can I be sure of having a placement without long gaps?
What are the payments/allowances available?
How many members of staff do they have compared to the number of foster carers?
Which age-groups do they mostly deal with?
Would I have the opportunity of using my specialist skills and fostering a child who has particular needs which I feel equipped to meet?
What type of fostering do they cater for – long term, short term, respite etc.?
Do they provide resources and personal support when I need it and can I expect to receive ongoing training?
Might I be likely to have a placement involving extensive travel? (Contact arrangements etc.)
How much background information about the child will I receive?
Will I be encouraged to meet and talk with other foster carers?
Will respite care be available if needed?

Your Thoughts About How to Choose a Fostering Agency

These and other questions you might have must be taken into account so that you can move forward with confidence. Nobody can predict the successful outcome, or breakdown, of a placement. There may be unexpected challenges ahead or the progress you hoped for might not be achieved. But careful preparation and appropriate initial choices will give both you and your child the best chance of a happy fostering experience.

What are your thoughts about how to choose a fostering agency?

About the Author - Andy Loverock

Andy has spent over twenty years working as a qualified mental health nurse and has been a foster carer since 2010. Fostering children inspired him to create Foster Care Matters - A Resource Hub and Fostering Community.