Why Foster with your Local Authority?
I’ve spoken to numerous people who are often overwhelmed by the number of different organisations advertising for foster carers. Many tend to wonder what the difference is between fostering with your local authority or an independent agency?
So we’re here to tell you why you should foster with your local authority. We have also gathered some local facts that will help you to understand the difference between fostering with your local authority, compared to independent commercial fostering agencies.
Why choose us?
Foster Wales Blaenau Gwent isn’t your standard fostering agency. We’re part of the national network of not-for-profit local authority fostering services across Wales.
So how does that make us different? Well, we have a national presence built on local expertise. As well as a purpose to work as a team, to build better futures for local children, not for profit.
Support
If you’re looking for reasons to become a foster carer in Blaenau Gwent, the excellent support system is one of them.
Each of our carers, and children in our care, have a complete local support network, so you never feel alone. This includes each having their own dedicated social worker with local expertise. As well as knowledge, support groups, social events and activities and a comprehensive package of learning and development opportunities, to help you on your fostering journey.
The Team
The Foster Wales Blaenau Gwent team work alongside the child’s social worker, within the same organisation (often in the same building). We have the same management team who make the decisions for the child. We really get to know you. We’re not a distant corporation or a mysterious figure at the end of an email address, but part of the local community and a familiar face. Unlike independent fostering agencies, we hold legal responsibility for all of our children looked after.
Location
At Foster Wales Blaenau Gwent, we aim to keep children local, when it’s right for them. That means that that children looked after can remain in their local community at their current school with their friends. It also means that foster carers don’t have a long commute for the school run or for the child to attend family time.
Independent fostering agencies may cover a wider area. Meaning foster carers may be expected to attend meetings or provide transport to the looked after child’s home area, which may be further away.
