Existing Foster Carers
At Channels & Choices, we provide in-house therapeutic fostering services so existing carers can quickly get the high-level support they need. We will support and guide you throughout the transfer process, which typically takes around three months from application. In the majority of cases, your child will transfer with you.
What Sets Us Apart
We’re not just another fostering agency. We’re a complete therapeutic community where everything connects seamlessly around each child.
Industry-Leading Financial Rewards
A professional career structure that financially rewards you as you train and develop. We will discuss your current package with you and match this — ensuring a smooth financial transition with no loss of income.
- £1500 transfer bonus per child in your care
- £532–£632 per week per child fee and allowance combination
- 22 nights paid respite per year
- Extra allowances including settling-in fee, holidays, uniforms, birthdays etc.
- Skills-based fee progression as you develop
Refer a friend to us as a foster carer and get rewarded. They can be existing carers or new to fostering.
You get £1500
Your friend gets £1500 per child in placement.
In-house multi-disciplined therapy team
Our integrated therapy department is made up of experienced clinicians who specialise in trauma-informed care and child development. They work directly with children, carers, foster families, residential teams, and school staff to build emotional safety, strengthen relationships, and support recovery from trauma.
Specialist Education if your child needs it
Our children in foster care have access to our independent special school (The Sallygate School) specialising in Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs for pupils aged 5–16. Small classes with a maximum of 8 pupils ensure personalised attention and trauma-informed teaching.
- Small classes (maximum 8 pupils per class)
- Broad curriculum including ASDAN qualifications and vocational options
- Integrated therapeutic support from our in-house team
Advanced Training & Career Development
Fantastic training opportunities with some of the country’s top experts in their fields. Progress your skills, increase your earning potential through our professional career structure, and become a recognized specialist in therapeutic fostering.
A Small but Well Established Agency
- Personal, Relationship-Led Support, a Close-Knit Community
- Thoughtful, Therapeutic Matching
- Fast, Responsive Decision-Making
- Proven Stability
- Intentional Inclusivity
Common Reasons Carers Make the Switch
You’re not alone in feeling that fostering could be better. Here’s what experienced carers tell us prompted their move.
“I felt isolated and unsupported”
High caseloads, slow responses, and generic advice left you managing complex challenges alone. We provide dedicated support with small caseloads and immediate access to specialists.
“I wasn’t being valued financially”
Your skills and experience deserve recognition. Our industry-leading allowances reflect the expertise you bring and the difference you make.
“Support felt fragmented and disconnected”
Juggling multiple agencies, waiting for therapy referrals, and dealing with education separately is exhausting. Our integrated model means one team, seamless coordination.
“Training felt like a tick-box exercise”
Generic online modules don’t develop real skills. Our accredited training in trauma-informed practice, attachment theory, and therapeutic parenting makes a genuine difference.
“I wanted to work with children with complex needs”
Our therapeutic model is specifically designed for children with trauma histories, placement breakdowns, and complex emotional needs — with the support structure to match.
“I felt like just a number”
You’re a valued professional, not a case file. We maintain small caseloads, know your name, understand your family, and treat you as the expert partner you are.
Making the Transfer Smooth & Seamless
We understand you may have concerns about switching agencies. Here’s how we make the transition straightforward and stress-free.
Fast-Track Assessment
As an approved foster carer, your transfer is streamlined. We recognise your existing approval and experience, focusing on getting to know you and your family rather than starting from scratch.
Continuity of Care
In the majority of cases, your child will transfer with you. Local Authorities would only look at moving a child if the move would mean a lower level of support is provided. We ensure there’s a detailed plan in place which ensures the changeover happens as quickly and smoothly as possible.
We are committed to the Transfer Protocol.
Dedicated Transfer Support
A dedicated member of our team will guide you through every step, answer all your questions, handle the paperwork, and ensure your move is as smooth as possible.
Immediate Benefits
From day one with Channels & Choices, you’ll receive enhanced allowances, access to our integrated therapeutic team, comprehensive support, and professional development opportunities.
Typical Transfer Timeline
The transfer process usually takes around three months from application, with a detailed plan ensuring no loss of income during the process.
What Our Carers Say
Hear from experienced foster carers who made the move to Channels & Choices.
“The difference in support is night and day. I actually have time with my supervising social worker to discuss real issues, not just tick boxes. When I call for help, someone knowledgeable answers — immediately.”— Foster Carer, transferred from another agency
“I wish I’d moved sooner. The allowances are genuinely better, but it’s the integrated approach that’s transformative. Having direct access to therapists and teachers who actually know my child changes everything.”— Experienced Foster Carer
Frequently Asked Questions
Will transferring affect my current placements?
In the majority of cases, your child will transfer with you. Local Authorities would only look at moving a child if the move would mean a lower level of support is provided. We ensure there’s a detailed plan in place which ensures the changeover happens as quickly and smoothly as possible without disruption to the child.
How long does the transfer process take?
The transfer process usually takes around three to five months from application. There is a clear transfer protocol which sets out the process and protects your right to change agencies. We will support and guide you throughout this process.
What if I’m unsure about making a change?
That’s completely understandable. We encourage you to arrange a confidential conversation with our team to discuss your current situation, ask questions, and explore whether Channels & Choices would be a better fit. There’s no pressure or obligation.
Do I need to tell my current agency I’m exploring other options?
Initial conversations with us are completely confidential. When you decide to proceed with transfer, we’ll guide you through the professional notification process and handle communications sensitively.
What financial improvements can I expect?
Our fee and allowance combination ranges from £532–£632 per week per child. We will discuss your current package with you and match this, ensuring a smooth financial transition. Additionally, we’re the only fostering service that will guarantee you an income whilst you are an approved Foster Carer, plus 22 nights respite.
Will I need to complete all my training again?
No. We recognise your existing qualifications and training. We’ll review your training record and identify any specific additional training that would benefit you and the children you care for, but you won’t start from scratch.
Download Your Free Transfer Guide
Get our comprehensive guide to transferring to Channels & Choices. Learn about the process, benefits, and how we make the transition smooth and seamless.