Local authority or voluntary agency

[hackneylady]

Hello there,

sorry for this basic question, and I'm sure you've been around it lots of times but I'd be really grateful for your advice.

Could you let me know what you think are some of the pros and cons of local authorities versus voluntary agencies?

I understand it's a bit more flexible these days, in that an LA can assess you but then look beyond their boundaries if they don't have a child that they think matches you? But then I wonder what's the incentive for them?

I also have the impression (possibly entirely false) that some of the agencies are a little bit more energetic, but then some people say that they are more likely to find 'hard to place' children (which wouldn't necessarily be a problem, just trying to figure it all out).

We've spoken to one voluntary agency who we really liked and seemed very positive, but I'd be really interested in hearing other people's thoughts. Thanks so much.

Hi! We are currently looking into adoption. Has anyone had any experience as to whether local council or voluntary agencies are best and how they differ? Thanks!

Neither type is automatically 'best' - there are good and bad LAs and VAs. Start with a list of those in your area (include the neighbouring LAs).

Make a list of a few key questions.

Then contact the LAs and VAs with the questions. Consider the way they interact with you as well as the actual answers.

Draw up your shortlist of two or three that seem good, and go to an information session with each.

Then chose the one that fits best with your needs and way of working.

That’s great! Thank you

Jumping on the thread, but would you be bothered about outstanding or poor Ofsted reports when choosing between agencies?