Support for IFAs with poor inspection judgements

As a membership organisation for independent fostering agencies (IFA), NAFP provides development opportunities including strengthening partnerships, informing practice, updating policy and procedures, so IFAs can provide the highest standard of care for children and young people.

NAFP recognises that members face challenging times and we are committed to working in a supportive and evidenced-based way with members, assisting with resources, training, guidance and advice. We promote the use of our Friday morning practice sessions; Google group discussions; partnership meetings and seminar attendance. The NAFP community is both supportive and information rich and continues to develop to meet the needs of our IFAs.

NAFP is also  a campaigning organisation, so it is key that members strive for the highest standards. When advocating for the successful and invaluable role IFAs have in the lives of fostered children and young people, it can be a challenge if we represent IFAs deemed to have failed to reach minimum standards of regulators and/or appear to be unsafe. Poor practice of an NAFP member can undermine other members, the wider fostering sector and NAFP’s position with national and local government, the media and the general public.

When NAFP becomes aware that a member is facing a particular challenge, either via an inspection report or reports of concerns, NAFP will contact the Responsible Individual or Registered Manager to offer support and assistance so the situation can be remedied. NAFP understands that improvements may take time. If NAFP is not reassured by the commitment to improve and can not see evidence of progress , or should there be critical concerns about the experiences of children or foster carers, NAFP maintains the right to terminate membership.

NAFP code of practice for members