There are many reasons why foster carers may decide to transfer from their current fostering agency or a Local Authority. It is a significant decision that can have a profound impact on both the carers and the children in their care. At Ascent Fostering Agency, we recognise that the needs of our carers evolve over time, and we are here to support you through every step of the transfer process. We aim to make the transition as smooth, easy, and stress-free as possible, ensuring that both foster carers and the children in their care experience minimal disruption.
At Ascent foster care agency, we believe in putting children and young people at the heart of everything we do. The welfare of the foster child is always our top priority, and our approach is tailored to meet the unique needs of every child and carer. If you are considering transferring to an independent fostering network like Ascent, there are many reasons why this might be the right step for you. Our dedicated team of social workers and support staff are here to guide you through the process and provide ongoing support.
Reasons for Transferring to Ascent Fostering Agency:
Moving Areas
One of the most common reasons foster carers decide to transfer is because they are moving to a new area. Whether it’s due to a change in family circumstances, a new job, or simply relocating to a different part of the country, Ascent understands the importance of continuity for both carers and the children in their care. Ascent supports foster carers across a wide range of locations (ranging from South-East to South-West London and Surrey), making it easier for you to continue your fostering journey without having to disrupt the lives of the children in your care. We work hard to ensure that the transfer process is completed quickly, whether you do or do not have a child or young person you are currently caring for. Where you have a child or young person joining Ascent with you, the only additional step required is called a Transfer Protocol Meeting where Ascent will meet with you and the child’s Local Authority to ensure that we all understand the young person’s needs and what support is already in place or what needs to be put in place.
Requiring More Support and Training
Foster carers are continually learning and growing in their role, and sometimes the support and training offered by their current agency or local authority may no longer meet their evolving needs. At Ascent, we pride ourselves on offering robust and ongoing training, as well as dedicated support for all of our carers. Our supervising social workers, like Carrie in our video, work closely with you to understand your specific needs and ensure that you have access to the resources, training, and support you need such as respite to thrive as a foster carer. Whether you’re looking for more in-depth training in therapeutic fostering or specialised support in managing complex behaviours, we are here to help.
Wishing to Take on a New Challenge – Different Types of Care
Sometimes, foster carers may wish to take on new challenges, such as caring for children with more complex needs, sibling groups, parent and child or older children. If you’re looking to expand your fostering skills and take on a wider range of placements, Ascent can provide you with the support and resources needed to meet these challenges. We understand that each foster carer has unique strengths and interests, and we work with you to match you with the right children and young people who will benefit from your care.
Wishing to Work in a Therapeutic Organisation
Therapeutic fostering is an area of fostering that has gained significant attention in recent years. Many foster carers are increasingly drawn to the idea of providing a nurturing, therapeutic environment for children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. Ascent is proud to offer a therapeutic approach to fostering, with training and support that helps carers develop the skills necessary to provide trauma-informed care. If you’re looking for a fostering agency that offers therapeutic care and provision to children and young people, you’ll find that Ascent’s approach provides a comprehensive framework for both carers and children to thrive. We provide a wealth of training and workshops in therapeutic child care. The Support team (social workers, mentors and therapists) are all trained in therapeutic child care. You will also have access to a Therapeutic Consultant who will meet with you to support you in caring for your child or young person. We also have a wide breadth of sessional therapists who undertake direct work with the children and young people we care for which reduces the wait time for children to access the necessary support they need.
Further Development of Your Fostering Skills
Foster care is a lifelong learning process, and there are always opportunities to grow and develop as a foster carer. If you feel that you have reached a plateau with your current agency or local authority, transferring to Ascent can provide you with new opportunities for personal and professional development. Ascent offers regular training sessions, peer support groups, and ongoing supervision to help you enhance your fostering skills. Whether you’re looking to deepen your knowledge of child development, improve your understanding of attachment, or explore new ways of managing challenging behaviours, Ascent is here to support your journey.
Our Commitment to Children and Young People
At Ascent, children and young people are at the very core of everything we do. We recognise that every child has a unique story and set of needs, and we are dedicated to providing a fostering service that meets those needs. Our experienced team of social workers and foster carers work together to ensure that children in placement feel safe, supported, and valued. We have over a 90% stability rate which evidences the care and continuity we provide the children and young people in our care. We are also committed to working innovatively and creatively to provide our children and young people with the best opportunities. Last year we took six children and young people to Botswana as part of a unique and transformative experience (please refer to the blog on Botswana) and are committed to other future opportunities for our children and young people.
The Ascent Difference
When you choose to transfer to Ascent, you’re not just joining another fostering agency; you’re becoming part of a family. Our team is passionate about supporting foster carers in their roles and providing the best care for children and young people. We understand the challenges you face and are here to offer the support, training, and resources you need to succeed.
Our relationship with the Foster Talk and Coram ensures that we are up to date with the latest fostering policies, best practices, and developments in the field. These partnerships allow us to offer a high-quality service that benefits both foster carers and the children they care for.
If you’re considering transferring to an independent fostering agency, Ascent could be the perfect fit for you. We understand that the decision to transfer is an important one, and we are here to support you every step of the way. Join us today and help us continue to provide the best possible care for children and young people across the country.
