Matching Matters: How Apex Finds the Right Families for Children in Foster Care

On the Sofa with Sal - Episode 2

At Apex Fostering, we don’t just place children; we find them families. In this episode of On the Sofa with Sal, we go behind the scenes of the fostering process with Jo, Apex’s incredible Family Finding Officer. Together, we unpack the heart-led approach to matching carers and children, and how Apex’s ethics-first culture sets it apart from traditional fostering agencies.

Not Just a Placement; A Family

Sali: So Jo, tell us, why do you call yourself a Family Finding Officer instead of the more common Placement Officer?

Jo: Because we’re not placing items. We’re finding families. That term ‘placement,’ feels cold, transactional. Family finding speaks to what we actually do. We listen. We get to know the child. We get to know the carer. And then we find the best fit for both.

Sali: That’s such a powerful reframe.

Jo: It really is. At Apex, the carer is never made to feel they have to take a child. That’s something I’ve experienced with other agencies, where matching was driven by money, not relationship. But here, you can say no. As many times as you need.

Matching That Puts People First

Matching isn’t guesswork; it’s a deliberate, careful process.

“The carers tell us what kind of child would suit their family, and we match to that — not the other way around.”

Whether it’s a baby, a sibling group, or a teenager with complex needs, Jo’s job is to listen to the carers and use their insight to guide decisions. There’s no commission involved, no pressure to fill beds. Just honest, values-led decision making.

Transparency Matters in Family Finding

Misinformation, or a lack of information, is one of the biggest fears foster carers face when taking on a child.

“We share everything we know. The referral, the behaviours, the contact arrangements, school plans - all of it. No hidden agendas.”

At Apex, carers are fully informed and involved in the process. Our social workers talk directly with the child’s social worker to fill in any gaps. And where possible, carers even meet the child’s current foster carer to get a more realistic picture.

Matching Works. Here’s Why:

The proof is in the placement success rate.

Jo shares that thanks to Apex’s in-depth process, fostering placement breakdowns are rare. That means fewer disruptions for children and more stability for everyone involved.

“You don’t get those out-of-hours crisis calls, because the child was truly the right fit.”

And when a placement isn’t quite right? Apex offers wraparound support first, and if needed, helps transition the child thoughtfully with a 28-day notice process.

Why Jo Loves Her Role

After years as a foster carer herself, Jo knows the emotional weight of reading referrals, of opening your home and heart.

“Now, I’m in a position to support carers and children in a better way, by making sure the right matches are made. That feels incredible.”

She speaks with admiration about the Apex carers: “they’re brilliant, kind-hearted people,” and about the leadership team too. “Sali knows every child by name. That kind of care at the top? It filters down to everything we do.”

Thinking About Fostering?

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like, Jo has this to say:

“The children just want stability, safety, and love. If you have the heart, you can foster.”

She reminds potential carers that fostering isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being real, and supported. And with Apex, you’re never doing it alone.

Inspired by Jo’s Story?

Whether you’re just starting to consider fostering, or ready to take the next step, our team is here to help. At Apex, you’re not just taking in a child, you’re changing a life, and gaining a village of support in return.

Considering Fostering? Let's Have a Chat!