Transfer to us

Are you an independent agency foster carer? Whether you're seeking something different or feeling disconnected from your current agency, remember you have the right to switch. Switch to Wiltshire Council and enjoy better support, local resources, and a caring community. Join us today and make a bigger impact right here at your local community! 

Why Transfer to Wiltshire Council? 

• Outstanding Ofsted: Wiltshire Council was rated 'Outstanding' by Ofsted in 2023, reflecting our commitment to excellence in foster care. 
• Non-Profit Focus: As a non-profit organisation, our primary goal is to provide the best possible care for children and young people, not to make a profit. 
• Keeping Kids Local: We strive to keep young people within their local communities in Wiltshire, allowing them to maintain important connections with friends, family, and schools. 
• Top-Notch Training and Support: We're proud of the high-quality training and support we offer our foster carers. You'll have a dedicated social worker, access to skilled therapists and support workers, and out-of-hours assistance. 
• Dedicated Fostering Team: Our stable and dedicated fostering team allows you to build strong, supportive relationships that you can rely on. 
• Consistent Placements: We prioritise placing children with our in-house foster carers first, so it's rare for you to be without children in your care. 
• Generous Payments: We offer generous fees to ensure our foster carers are valued and respected for their vital role. 
• Additional Perks: 
  • Access to Wiltshire Rewards, offering discounts at shops, restaurants, and activities. 
  • Free swimming, court hire, and significant discounts on classes and gym memberships at Wiltshire Council Leisure Centres. 
  • Christmas and summer parties. 
  • Support groups for your own children. 
  • And many more benefits... 

What is the Transfer Process? 

1. Get in Touch: If you're considering transferring to Wiltshire Council, the first step is to give us a call at 0800 169 6321. We're here to answer any questions you have about fostering with us and explain the transfer process. 
2. Transfer Protocol: We adhere to the Transfer Protocol recommended by The Fostering Network. We'll provide you with a copy when you first contact us, so you know exactly what to expect. 
3. Children in Your Care: If you currently have children placed with you, you can still transfer to us. These children can continue living with you, even if they're from another local authority. 
4. Vacancies: If you have a vacancy, we can discuss with your current agency the possibility of you caring for our children who need a home during the transfer process. 
5. Informing Your Agency: You only need to inform your current agency once you've spoken with us and decided to proceed with the transfer. Before that, feel free to reach out to us as many times as you need. 
6. Home Visit: After your initial inquiry, we'll arrange a home visit. If you decide to move forward, we'll update your most recent Form F as part of our fostering assessment. 
7. Seamless Transition: At the start of the transfer process, we'll arrange a meeting with you, your current agency, and the child's social worker to ensure a smooth transition for both you and the children in your care. 
8. Final Approval: You'll only resign from your current agency once you've received ADM (Agency Decision Maker) approval from Wiltshire Council.