Independent Agency or Local Authority?
Posted 23 July 2024

We always suggest exploring all your options before making a commitment and find a fostering service that you feel is right and comfortable for you. Here are some hints on what to consider when choosing your foster care provider:
- Training and Support – when setting out on your journey to fostering always bear in mind that everyone develops at a different speed and your confidence in fostering may grow greatly or require more support and training. Always seek a fostering provider that can fit your needs with training and support.
- Age of placements – Local authorities tend to have more placements that are young children and babies, whereas independent agency although still have some placements veer on the side of slightly older children.
- Fostering payment – Although fostering is not about the money, and we emphasise the will to care over the benefits. It is important to always consider your financial situation whereby an independent fostering agency tends to provide a higher reward.
- Location – From placements to support, think about how far you would like to travel and check with the fostering provider which areas they serve for placements.
As an independent fostering agency, we offer tailored training and support that suits your needs. Also, as the agency is small, you bond close relationships with fellow foster carers, meaning the training is great fun! The social workers have low caseloads so can provide you with 24/7 support.
Finally we are local, serving the local community. Someone is never far away and you will always be greeted upon visits to the office by one of our team.
Yes, independent fostering agencies and local authorities have key differences, but the main thing to remember is the child, and both options ensure that the well-being and safety of the child in care is at the forefront of service.
We welcome you to get in touch for a further discussion to help you make an informed decision. Feel free to give us a call, email or pop by the office!