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The role of an independent fostering agency

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What is an independent fostering agency?

An independent fostering agency is an agency, such as Capstone Foster Care, who works with the local authorities in order to provide foster care to young people or children in need of a secure and loving home. This typically takes place when a local authority is unable to place a foster child with one of their approved foster families.

How does an independent fostering agency operate?

Independent foster agencies work very closely with local authorities to ensure the safeguarding of children in care is the utmost priority. However, initially, independent fostering agencies did not exist – and it was solely local authorities who managed the safeguarding and protection of children in care.

As the population has grown over the years, the demand for children’s protection has grown alongside it – meaning there was an urgent need for independent fostering agencies. Although local authorities and independent fostering agencies have key differences, having different approaches and processes, independent fostering agencies still work very closely with local authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of the child in care is always at the forefront.

What are the benefits of choosing an independent fostering agency?

Fostering agencies are likely to have much more of a ‘family feel’ than a local authority, especially those that operate in specific locations. This ‘family feel’ environment means there are many benefits of fostering with a fostering agency, which include:

  • Training – it’s likely that there will be more training and skill enhancement opportunities available to develop your skills as a foster carer.
  • Allowance – typically, fostering agencies often offer a larger fostering allowance than local authorities do.
  • Support – due to the wider resources of an agency, you’re likely to experience a deeper level of support for fostering queries and advice.

For more information, find out about the benefits of fostering with an independent fostering agency from our detailed guide.

As an independent fostering agency, here at Capstone, we have 600+ carers across the UK, along with 10 years of experience behind us. This allows us to have the expertise to assist you to possess all the skills you need to become the best foster carer you’ll be. Learn more of the reasons why you should choose Capstone as your fostering agency now.

Alternatively, if you’re interested in becoming a foster carer, learn how to apply to become a foster parent now. If you have any further questions about how an independent fostering agency differs from a local authority, get in touch with our expert team.

Thinking of fostering?

If you’ve got any questions or would like to find out more about fostering with Capstone, fill out the form below.
An experienced fostering advisor from your local area will then be in touch.

The information you provide will be used to respond to the enquiry you have submitted, for further information please refer to our privacy policy.

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Find out more about fostering with Capstone.

Download our helpful guide to becoming a foster carer

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Ways to
GET IN TOUCH

Start the conversation today. Our team of friendly advisors are on hand to answer any foster care questions you may have. We can offer you honest and practical advice that can help you decide if becoming a foster carer is the right path for you. 


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Download a Brochure

Download our helpful guide to becoming a foster carer with Capstone Foster Care.