Independent Foster Care Services
Framework Description
NEPO603 Independent Foster Care Services gives public sector organisations access to independent fostering placements and Staying Put services. It is a single-lot Flexible Procurement Agreement rather than a DPS, and it opens every two months so new providers can join. It started on 1 July 2022 and runs to 30 June 2027, with an option to extend to 30 June 2028.
Context & Use Case
Local authority children's services use NEPO603 when they need an independent fostering agency placement, often because in-house carers are not available. Staying Put lets young people remain with their foster carers after 18. NEPO Member Authorities use the agreement to work with providers collectively, place children on harmonised terms and grow foster care capacity in the region.
Scope of Services
Independent foster care placements for children and young people Staying Put arrangements beyond age 18 Support and training for foster carers
Lots
Single lot
Who Can Apply
Suits independent fostering agencies and charities with registered fostering services. Because NEPO603 opens every two months, new providers can apply to join during its term, and NEPO publishes a notice each time it opens.
Buyer Benefits
Harmonised terms and conditions across most providers make placements simpler to arrange and manage, and bringing spend onto the agreement reduces off-framework placements. Regular openings increase placement choice as new providers enter the region, and existing providers work with NEPO Member Authorities to grow local capacity, which helps councils meet their sufficiency duty.
Next Steps
Watch for NEPO's next two-monthly opening notice and register on NEPO's portal so you are notified. Prepare evidence of Ofsted ratings, outcomes for children, carer recruitment, training and retention, and Staying Put support. Appointed agencies should keep that evidence current for contract monitoring and for the next procurement after June 2027 or June 2028.
How Athena Can Help
NEPO603 opens every two months, so a strong application can get your agency on it well before 2027. Athena's framework application support prepares your selection documents, safeguarding policies and outcomes evidence, and checks them for compliance before submission.
Our experienced bid writers write answers that show the difference you make for children, and our children's services pricing advice helps you set placement fees that stay competitive without undermining carer support.
