We’re proud to share that FCA South Western has been rated Outstanding by Ofsted following its latest inspection.
This incredible achievement reflects the dedication, compassion and hard work of our foster parents and staff across the region. It highlights the life-changing impact they are making every day – providing children and young people with the stability, care and support they need to make a difference in their life and for their future.
Children at the heart of everything
At FCA, children are at the centre of everything we do, and this was clearly recognised throughout the inspection. Ofsted noted that “children do exceptionally well” in the care of FCA South Western foster parents – a powerful reflection of the nurturing, consistent family environments they provide.
Foster parents were also praised for being “fierce advocates” for the children in their care, helping them feel safe, heard and supported as they rebuild their lives.
A therapeutic approach that makes a difference
FCA South Western’s therapeutic approach continues to be a key strength, with tailored support making a real and lasting impact.
Ofsted recognised this, highlighting that the support provided is “making a measurable difference to children’s outcomes.” One example included a sibling pair who, after arriving with a challenging relationship, have since developed a positive bond and been able to remain together.
The report also commended the role of therapeutic support, describing it as “invaluable in helping them develop practical, bespoke strategies that make a positive difference.”
Helping children to thrive
Foster parents across the region were recognised for the strong, trusting relationships they build with children, with Ofsted noting how they “quickly establish routines and boundaries to help them thrive.”
Karen and Wayne, who have been fostering with FCA South Western for five years, shared their experience:
“With FCA, you get a brilliant network of people around you, there’s always therapeutic support, and they’re always there when you need them. FCA really is a wonderful agency to work with.”
They also reflected on the impact fostering can have:
“We had a little girl placed with us, and it actually gives me goosebumps to talk about her journey. From the moment she arrived to when she left, she became a totally different little girl. Watching that transformation was just incredible.”
Children’s voices were also central to the report, with feedback including:
“She’s my rock” and “I can be me because of my foster parent.”
Strong leadership driving continued improvement
This Outstanding judgement marks a significant milestone for FCA South Western, following steady improvement over recent years – from ‘Requires Improvement’ in 2019, to ‘Good’ in 2023, and now ‘Outstanding’.
Leadership and management were also rated Outstanding, recognising the strength, vision and commitment of the team.
Registered Manager Naomi Pollard said:
“The power of foster care is an incredible thing which we are fortunate to see the positive effects of every day. All of our staff and foster parents should feel very proud of the work we’re doing to transform the lives of children and young people in the local area.”
She added:
“There are still lots of myths and misconceptions surrounding fostering, but we’re welcoming anyone interested in making a difference to children’s lives in the local area to please get in touch to find out more about the foster care journey.”
This Outstanding result is a testament to the strength of the FCA community – from foster parents to staff – all working together with a shared purpose: to give children the opportunity to feel safe, supported and valued.
We’re incredibly proud of everyone involved in FCA South Western and the difference they continue to make every day.
Interested in fostering?
If you are interested in becoming a foster parent with an Outstanding agency, we would love to hear from you.
Enquire now via our online form, or call 0800 023 4561 to speak to the team.
Together, we can continue changing children’s lives.
