Organic Fostering

Interested in Fostering? Call 0161 241 1332

HOW TO TRANSFER FOSTERING AGENCY

Joining our fostering family is easier than you think – we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

TRANSFER TO US

As one of the UK’s leading therapeutic fostering agencies, we use our collective knowledge and experience to guide you through the transfer process as quick and hassle-free as possible, so you and your family can enjoy the benefits of being part of the Organic fostering family.

I'M TRANSFERRING WITHOUT CHILDREN IN PLACEMENT

We understand that changing foster providers can be a big decision to make, particularly if you have foster children in placement, which is why we always fast-track experienced foster families through the assessment process – aiming to complete it within just 12 weeks of your initial enquiry.

The process to transfer fostering agencies differs slightly depending on whether you have a child currently in your care. You can discover the process for both scenarios below.

I'M TRANSFERRING WITH CHILDREN IN PLACEMENT
ALREADY FOSTERING AND LOOKING TO TRANSFER?

Learn about the process of transferring and the amazing benefits of working with Organic fostering.

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THE FOSTERING JOURNEY

Step 1: Speak to us and receive all the information you need to make a decision about whether we’re the right agency for you.

Step 2: When you’re ready to transfer, you’ll need to submit an application to us and also notify your current agency or local authority that you intend to transfer. Don’t worry this isn’t your resignation.    

Step 3: Once we have accepted your application and received a copy of your notice of intent to transfer, we’ll introduce you to your assessing social worker who will complete your assessment – we’ll capture all your existing skills and experience that you’ve gained through fostering.

Step 4: An independent panel will review your assessment and make a recommendation to our agency decision maker, who will confirm your approval status.

Step 5: It’s at this point that you’ll formally resign from your current agency, and that’s it! You’ll automatically transfer over to our service 28 days later, when your new contract will start and your old one ends.

The transfer process is slightly different if you have a child in placement.

TRANSFERRING WITH A CHILD IN PLACEMENT

The process is largely the same as transferring without any children in placement, however, there are some key differences that you will need to know.

  1. When notifying your current agency that you’re considering transferring foster agency, you must also notify the child’s placing local authority.
  2. The child’s placing local authority will then arrange a Transfer Protocol Meeting within 28 days of receiving your notice of intent to transfer. This meeting takes place during the assessment stage and would include yourself, someone from the child’s placing authority, someone from your current agency (if applicable) and also a representative from Organic fostering.
WHAT IS DISCUSSED IN THE TRANSFER PROTOCOL MEETING?

Your foster child’s best interests are the most important thing to consider when looking to transfer to a new provider. That’s why the Transfer Protocol Meeting is held to ensure that Organic fostering can continue to meet the needs of any young person currently in your care, and that transferring won’t have any negative impact.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE MAIN CONSIDERATIONS?
  • UK's most established fostering agency
  • Leaders in therapeutic foster care
  • We'll match your allowance at the very least, but often we can beat it
  • An unrivalled therapeutic training programme
  • Wrap-around support from a local team of social workers, therapists, education specialists, and more

You can rest assured that the welfare of your current foster child will be a number one priority when you transfer to Organic fostering. We understand that change can be triggering, so the needs of the child will always be considered, including how we’d support them after you transfer.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

No, you don’t need to notify your current fostering agency or local authority until you’re serious about transferring fostering agencies and have applied elsewhere. However, this initial notification is not a resignation; it merely indicates your intention to explore an application for transfer. The formal resignation becomes necessary only after you’ve successfully completed the panel process.

From the very beginning, our goal is to ensure a seamless and stress-free transition for both you and any children under your care. If you’re transferring from another fostering agency or local authority, we strive to complete your assessment within 12 weeks. Rest assured, we’re here to provide dedicated support at every stage of the process

Certainly! Changing foster care agencies with an existing young person in your care is indeed possible. It requires careful consideration of the child’s welfare, happiness, and care plan. Here’s how the process typically unfolds:


1. Transfer Protocol Meeting: A meeting is convened involving your current fostering agency, the child’s local authority, and Organic Fostering. During this meeting, all relevant details are discussed, ensuring a smooth transition.

2. Child-Centric Approach: The child’s well-being remains at the forefront. Decisions are made with their best interests in mind.

3. Thoughtful Transition: The transfer process is handled thoughtfully, taking into account the child’s emotional attachment, routines, and any specific needs.