Independent Fostering Agencies

Hampshire County Council's Children Services Directorate is seeking to commission a range of IFA (independent fostering agencies) to support our looked after children cohort. The new framework will as a minimum include fostering arrangements for; Standard Foster Placements including Respite Parent & Child Foster Placements Children with Complex/Challenging Behaviours Children with Disabilities/Complex Healthcare Needs Separated Children This list is not exhaustive and the framework will be flexible to capture additional fostering requirements that may emerge. The Framework is being established as a light touch framework using the flexibilities allowed under the Procurement Act 2023. Following the initial award it will then be reopened in January 2026 and remain open for the initial term. The priority of any arrangements will be to secure Hampshire placements for Hampshire children and Young People to support with their education, training, contact, and in order to maintain other existing support networks such as friends and other family members.