Progress Fostering Service Maintains Outstanding Ofsted Rating
Progress has earned top marks from Ofsted, proving once again that outstanding care changes lives.
Progress Fostering Service has officially maintained its Outstanding rating by Ofsted following its latest inspection, a recognition that reinforces the agency’s longstanding commitment to delivering exceptional care and support to children and young people. The inspection, conducted from 24 to 28 February 2025, evaluated the fostering agency under the Social Care Common Inspection Framework and praised the organisation for its unwavering focus on positive outcomes, professional excellence, and inclusive care.
In the report, Ofsted inspectors highlighted the outstanding quality of care provided to children and young people placed with Progress foster families. The agency was specifically commended for its ability to deliver highly effective services that consistently exceed expectations, ensuring children not only feel safe but also thrive emotionally, socially, and educationally. Ofsted noted that the children in Progress placements are flourishing, with many experiencing significant progress from their individual starting points. The report detailed how children benefit from tailored, flexible care packages and therapeutic support that address their unique needs.
One of the key features highlighted in the report was Progress’ enhanced care model, which includes direct access to the agency’s therapeutic team and the involvement of family support workers. These professionals play an integral role in supporting both children and carers through one-on-one sessions, youth groups, consultation forums, and holiday schemes. According to the report, this wraparound support not only enriches the children’s lives but also empowers foster carers, creating a strong foundation for stability and growth.
Inspectors were particularly moved by the personal stories shared by children, including one young person who spoke about moving from residential care into a loving foster home where they had the opportunity to choose and care for their first pet. Such moments, the report noted, are symbolic of the confidence, independence, and emotional healing that children experience under Progress’s care.
The leadership of Progress Children’s Services also received glowing praise. The report noted that the agency’s new registered manager, Michelle, appointed in September 2024, had been supported by a strategic succession plan and mentored by the responsible individual. Ofsted commended the leadership team for maintaininga clear vision and ethos, supported by robust internal monitoring and a culture of continuous improvement. Staff at all levels spoke positively about their experience, pointing to comprehensive inductions, training, regular appraisals, and strong support systems that enable them to thrive professionally and deliver the best outcomes for children.
The inspection also confirmed that the leadership team managed transitions with care and collaboration. Foster carers were invited to attend dedicated conferences and provide feedback, and the leadership team responded proactively to concerns raised, ensuring continuity of support and services.
Inspectors also noted Progress’ inclusive recruitment practices and the warm, responsive approach toward prospective foster carers. Social workers were praised for building strong relationships with applicants and their families, including offering dedicated support to birth children within fostering households. Foster carers described feeling well-prepared and supported throughout the assessment and approval process.
The overall outcome of the inspection was overwhelmingly positive.
Speaking after the publication of the report, Michelle Earp, Registered Manager at Progress Fostering Service, expressed pride in the outcome. “This inspection result is a reflection of the incredible team effort at Progress, from our dedicated foster carers and skilled staff to the children whose resilience and growth continue to inspire us every day. We are committed to listening, learning, and doing everything we can to provide exceptional care.”
Tina Bhardwaj, Head of Children’s Service at Progress, added: “We are proud to be recognised once again as an outstanding fostering agency. The feedback from Ofsted validates the deep-rooted values and standards that guide everything we do. While we celebrate this success, we remain focused on the future and on delivering even more meaningful impact for children and families.”
Progress remains one of the leading fostering agencies in the region, known for its innovative approaches, compassionate care, and inclusive ethos. The agency continues to welcome applications from individuals and families interested in making a difference in a child’s life.
