Independent Fostering Agencies (IFAs)

It's commonly understood that when a child is taken into care they are the legal responsibility of their Local Authority, which may then place a child with one of their foster carers. So what's the role of an Independent Fostering Agency (IFA)?

The role of Independent Fostering Agencies (IFAs)

IFAs are private companies that offer placements in fostering families registered to them. IFAs work closely with Local Authorities to deliver these placements.

FCA is the largest UK IFA. Through our approach to fostering - delivering an extended network of professional fostering support - we have changed the shape of foster care in the UK.

With the UK fostering service currently in a state of crisis, IFAs are playing a vital role in addressing the shortage of up to 10,000 foster carers.

Benefits of an Independent Fostering Agency (IFA)

IFAs often have an extended and robust infrastructure, which allows the delivery of a more rounded support service to foster carers. This is evident in our Team parenting® model of foster care, which enables us to offer placements for ‘difficult to place’ children or young people.

What's more, foster carers registered to IFAs benefit from the feeling of enhanced commitment from the organisation, as well as increased access to support and training.

Regulating Independent Fostering Agencies (IFAs)

As a Childcare Service Provider, all IFAs are subject to the strictest regulations by Ofsted in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and the Care Commission in Scotland. The Government has released standards to which all IFAs and Social Services must adhere.

FCA remains at the cusp of any changes in government legislation and recent regulation. FCA received good, very good or outstanding in all areas of our latest inspection by Ofsted and the Care Commission. See our inspection results.

Registering with an Independent Fostering Agency (IFA)

Foster carers can either register with a Local Authority or an IFA. It must be noted that foster carers can only register with one IFA or register with a Local Authority.

FCA welcomes all enquiries into becoming a foster carer, for both new and existing carers. Call us on 0800 023 4561 or enquire online today.

View our Video Library

Foster Care Associates Limited, Registered Company in England and Wales

Registered Office: Malvern View, Saxon Business Park, Hanbury Road, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, B60 4AD

Company Registration Number: 04322806

Foster Care Associates is part of the Core Assets Group, an international
provider of social care solutions for individuals and organisations.

Web Design by Bird & Co Creative Design