AT1487 Independent Foster Agencies Provision

Luton, Bedford, Central Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Councils are working collaboratively to re-open and expand the Approved Provider List (APL) for Independent Fostering Agencies to serve all authorities. The APL will support the authorities to deliver suitable foster care placements at the right time, in the right location and with the right support, to improve the overall outcomes for children looked after. We are seeking independent Foster Care provision must be in in Beds/Herts and surrounding areas eg Buckinghamshire, Milton Keynes, Northamptonshire, Cambridgeshire. Providers must be Ofsted registered as Good or Outstanding and act in accordance with the guidance contained in Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018) and any subsequent guidance. An Approved Provider List (APL) was commissioned in 2025 and this is a re-opening of the APL to allow further providers to join. This is being procured under the Light Touch Regime under Public Contract Regulations 2015 as the original APL was procured before the Procurement Act 2023 came into force.