Every year, thousands of new foster families are needed in England and, if you have a passion for caring for young and vulnerable children, this could be the career for you.
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National Fostering Agency: A ‘Family Feel’

By Contributed

Last year, it was discovered 57, 380 children were living with foster families, which is 72% of the 80, 080 children in care looked after away from home, so these vulnerable children need us now more than ever. 

National Fostering Agency (NFA) is an organisation with offices all over the UK and is the UK’s largest independent fostering agency. The agencies are divided into areas throughout the country, enabling each agency to have a ‘family feel’.  Fostering Agencies work closely with Local Authorities to meet the heavy demands placed on care services.

Of course, working with children comes with a list of requirements but mainly you will need a spare room, time and patience.  There is an assessment process that the team would be happy to discuss with you.

Every foster carer has a brilliant Supervising Social Worker (SSW) who is always on hand to provide support and access to the SSW is 24/7, so no matter what time of day it is, you’ll always have the support you need.  They also offer a bespoke and comprehensive training package and their Support Groups provide a forum to meet with other foster carers in your locality. 

A generous fostering allowance is available and the NFA can also provide the benefits/perks of being a large agency delivered with a small agency feel.

Rachel Cooper, a Carer Recruitment Officer for the NFA, told us: “I am lucky enough to meet with potential foster carers in the early stages of their journey. I love meeting, chatting with lots of interesting people and supporting them through their fostering journey.”

Being a foster carer can be the most rewarding work, Sarah and Louise, National Fostering Group foster parents told us : “I wish someone had told us how inspiring, rewarding and fulfilling fostering actually is. It’s been the most wonderful journey that we hold very close to our heart and we’re already looking for more opportunities to help and support young people through difficult times.” 

To learn more about the NFA:

  • watch some videos featured on their National Fostering Agency Facebook page  
Contributed
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