Transferring between foster agencies

There are numerous factors contributing to a foster carer (or carers) choosing to switch between fostering agencies, or from a local authority council to an agency.

Whether that be due to the services and support offered, moving home or something else, Beacon Fostering is here to ensure the process is smooth and straightforward for foster carers.

Here’s what you need to know if you want to transfer between foster care agencies.

Transferring with a child

If you are considering transferring agencies and you are currently fostering a child, ensure that you notify your current agency of your plans, so that both parties, including the new agency and the child’s social workers, can discuss the process and the motivations behind the change.

The needs and welfare of the child(ren) in question should also be considered as well, and their welfare should be the number one priority for the carers, agencies and social workers involved.

When the new fostering agency approves the foster carer, they resign from their former agency and join the new one.

Transferring without a child

Carers who do not currently have a child in their care also need to inform their current agency that they plan to switch. When they have applied to transfer to the new agency, they will go through the checks and approval as they would if not transferring.

After this is done, the new agency can assess the carer for approval. Once this is completed successfully, the carer gives in their resignation to their former agency and joins the new one.