Fostering agency is top rated

A FOSTERING agency which operates in Henley has been rated “Outstanding” by Ofsted for the second year running.

Foster Care Associates Thames Valley was recognised by the education watchdog for making children’s participation a “high priority for all”.

It was also praised for providing a wide range of activities and catering to children with additional communication needs.

Inspectors said that leaders and management were “focused on achieving the best outcomes for children” through reviewing and improving how they meet their needs and that of foster carers.

Children in care with the agency have been invited to a new participation group, “We are in it together”, where they shape and propose questions to ask prospective foster parents going through the assessment process.

The agency also protects the welfare of foster parents’ own children, asking them for honest feedback through surveys, recognising that fostering affects the entire family.

Over the last year, the participation team at the agency has also organised an Easter egg hunt, fun days, arts and crafts, special education needs-friendly activities and visits to theme parks.

Jessica Wilson, a participation officer at FCA Thames Valley, said: “I know what being in care feels like so I can really relate to our young people and let them know they’re not alone.

“I try to show them their voices genuinely matter and they have the power to shape change for themselves and others, too.”

Foster Care Associates works with local authorities to provide appropriate care for children and young people, matching children with the right foster families for them. The agency currently has 53 fostering households caring for
58 children.