Hi, my partner and i have applied to foster with our local authority just recently (we're both 46). But im now wondering if private agencies will take better care of us (eg Support, etc etc).. (assuming we get thru of course lol).
We are like all other 'newbies' entering the fostering arena and have heard many conflicting stories from both LA f/carers and IFA's (i have several foster mum friends).
We've wanted to foster for over two years but held back as we had college courses to complete etc. We've been together three years and i have three children living at home 16, 15, and nine, all girls..
Now then ~
Rather than dance politely around questions, im going to be bold and direct lol..
(1) Is it common place to be treated better by a private fostering agency?
(2) As id give up work to do this i would need a regular income. The £ amount isn't of consequence as my work is only part time anyway, but none the less its a steady income i can rely on.
(3) I understand the LA will always utilise their own FC first, then surplus placements would go to IFA.. (The IFA being an 'over-spill' i assume). But with the fostering drive there is alot more FC available in the LA bank. So the need or demand to IFA will reduce further and further as time passes.. (again, i assume).
(4) We've no idea what questions or problems we are yet to face lol, but i am curious if the rules are the same for both LA and IFA.. (for example, age, bed availability, criminal record criteria, etc etc).
(5) And how scarey is that first visit (i go white even trying to imagine it lol).
Thanks for reading :o)
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4 replies
minximoo · 28/01/2012 18:51
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