Making the Move: Your Guide to Seamless Fostering Agency Transfers

Are you a dedicated foster parent considering a change in agencies?

We understand that taking the first step towards transferring can feel daunting, leading to questions about paperwork, resignation timelines, and the continued care for the child in your home. Perhaps you're looking for better support, more competitive allowances, or simply a different organisational culture that aligns more closely with your fostering philosophy.

Here at Parallel Parents, we recognize the incredible value of experienced foster carers which is why we have built a clear, compassionate pathway designed specifically to help you navigate the transfer process with absolute confidence.

This blog is your comprehensive guide. We’ll break down every myth, answer every burning question, and show you exactly how simple the transition can be, even if you currently have a child in your care.

We are committed to being your support throughout this journey. We won't just process your application; we'll offer dedicated guidance and personalized support from your initial inquiry right through to your final approval, ensuring you and the children you care for experience a smooth, secure, and beneficial move.

Ready to explore a brighter future for your fostering career?

Read on to learn how Parallel Parents can support your next chapter.

Foster Carer Transfer Myths!

"It's a difficult and complex process"

The process for transferring is extremely streamlined and fundamentally, it mirrors the essential steps of your initial assessment. Rest assured, our team offers unwavering support at every step, whilst also helping you build a relationship with your Supervising Social Worker, and their team throughout the journey.

 The Parallel Parents Truth: While there is necessary paperwork, we handle the heavy lifting. You will be assigned a dedicated assessor whose primary goal is to make the journey feel familiar, supportive, and efficient.

"I can't transfer whilst I have children in my care"

Having a child or children currently placed with you will not stop your application to transfer. A key element of our procedure involves collaborating with all involved parties responsible for the child’s welfare. This ensures a seamless continuation of care and allows us to explore opportunities for delivering enhanced support.

The Parallel Parents Truth: The child's needs are paramount. We work directly with the LA to invoke the 'Protocol for the Transfer of Carers' which prioritises continuity and stability for the child, allowing them to remain in your home during the transfer.

"I need to resign from my current agency before meeting another agency"

There is no requirement to notify your current provider until you are fully committed to proceeding with an application. Once you have had met with us and the team, you can then take your time to explore and decide what is best for you. Your official handover only takes effect following final approval from your new provider.

The Parallel Parents Truth: We encourage you to do your due diligence and explore all your options. We provide a confidential initial discussion, assessment visit, and a period of reflection before you are required to make any commitment to us or your current agency.

"I will be paid less than my current provider, if I transfer with a child in my care"

We recognize that financial considerations are a critical part of your decision to switch providers. Your significant commitment as a foster parent warrants remuneration that reflects your immense effort. At Parallel Parents, our financial package is highly competitive and every effort is made to meet requirements and want of our foster carers, thereby ensuring the child under your care benefits from the highest level of resource.

The Parallel Parents Truth: We aim to offer a package that matches or exceeds your current allowance, ensuring that the financial stability for you and the child/ren in your care is maintained or improved from day one of your transfer.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

At Parallel Parents, we believe your experience and dedication deserve the best support structure possible. Don't let myths about complexity hold you back from a partnership that truly values you.

Contact our dedicated transfer team today for a confidential, no-obligation chat. We can answer your specific questions, run through a projected timeline, and start planning your confident transition to Parallel Parents.