Reasons to Transfer to Mulberry Foster Care
If you're currently a foster carer with the local authority or another agency and are considering a change, here's why transferring to Mulberry Foster Care could be the right move for you.
Become a foster carer todayHere's why transferring could be the right move for you
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Increased Support and Resources
At Mulberry, we prioritise the well-being of both our carers and the children in our care. By transferring to us, you'll gain access to a wealth of support services, including comprehensive training, dedicated social workers, and round-the-clock assistance.
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More Flexibility and Control
We understand that every foster carer has unique preferences and needs. Transferring to Mulberry gives you the flexibility to choose the types of placements you're most comfortable with, whether it's short-term, long-term, or specialised care. You'll also have more control over your fostering journey, with the ability to tailor your experience to suit your lifestyle and availability.
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Better Communication and Collaboration
Communication is key to successful fostering, and at Mulberry, we prioritise open, transparent communication with our carers. You'll have regular opportunities to voice your opinions, concerns, and preferences, and we'll work collaboratively with you to ensure the best outcomes for the children in your care.
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Streamlined Processes and Supportive Environment
Transferring to Mulberry means joining a foster care agency with streamlined processes and a supportive environment. We'll guide you through the transfer process seamlessly, providing all the assistance and resources you need to transition smoothly and continue your fostering journey with confidence.
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Enhanced Training and Development Opportunities
Our commitment to ongoing training and development sets us apart. As a Mulberry carer, you'll have access to a wide range of training programs and workshops designed to enhance your skills and knowledge in areas such as trauma-informed care, attachment theory, and therapeutic techniques. Investing in your professional development is central to our approach to fostering.
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Greater Autonomy and Decision-Making Power
We believe in empowering our carers to make informed decisions about the children in their care. When you transfer to Mulberry, you'll have greater autonomy and decision-making power, allowing you to play an active role in shaping the lives of the children you foster.
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Competitive Financial Support
We understand that fostering is not just a vocation but also a means of livelihood for many carers. That's why we offer competitive financial support packages to ensure that you're fairly compensated for your time, effort, and dedication.
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Positive Reputation and Accreditation
Mulberry Foster Care has earned a positive reputation for excellence in fostering. Our accreditation and track record of success speak volumes about our commitment to providing high-quality care and support to both carers and children.
The Process
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Initial Inquiry
Your journey begins with reaching out to us. You can start by contacting our dedicated team either by phone or through our website. We'll be happy to answer any initial questions you have and provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.
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Information Session
Once you express interest in transferring to Mulberry, we'll meet with you for an initial conversation. This session will give you a comprehensive overview of who we are, our values, and what sets us apart as a foster care agency. You'll also have the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the support and resources we offer to our carers.
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Application
If you decide to proceed with the transfer, the next step is to complete application process. Once the application form has been completed and we confirm our intention to move forward with your application, we will arrange an initial home visit. Before this meeting takes place you will need to provide your Local Authority or Agency with your ‘Notice of intention to resign’. We cannot undertake any assessment until this has been provided. It is not your actual resignation, but as the title suggests, simply your intention to. It can be revoked at any time.
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Assessment
This involves providing relevant documentation, undergoing background checks, and participating in interviews with your assessor. This will be more streamlined that your original Form F but will involve the same processes.
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Transfer Planning Meeting
If you have a child in placement , we will arrange a Transfer Protocol meeting. This meeting involves the team around your child in care and the meeting will involve discussing the details of your transition, including the transfer of any ongoing placements, paperwork, and training requirements. Our team will work closely with you to ensure a smooth and efficient transfer process.
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Panel
As when you were first approved as a carer, you will appear before a panel who would have had sight of your Form F but will want to ask you and your assessor some questions. At the conclusion of Panel, the panel will make a decision as to whether or not you are approved to be a Mulberry Foster Carer. Once you are approved, that day , you will need to formally submit your resignation to your LA or Agency. This then triggers a 28 day transfer period. Once you have been ratified by our ADM, you will be a Mulberry Foster Carer once this 28 day period has expired.
Common Questions
Here's a list of commonly asked questions by foster carers who wish to transfer to a new agency, along with their corresponding answers:
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How long does the transfer process usually take?
The duration can vary depending on individual circumstances, but on average, the transfer process between 3-5 months from the initial inquiry to final approval.
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Will my current placements be transferred to your agency?
Yes, we will work with you to ensure a smooth transition for any ongoing placements you have. Our priority is to minimise disruptions for both you and the children in your care.
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How can I get started with the transfer process?
You can begin by contacting our transfer team to express your interest and schedule an initial consultation. From there, we'll guide you through the process step by step and provide all the assistance you need to make a smooth transition to our agency.