Provision of an Independent Fostering Agency Framework in Bromley

Written by Kim Frater

Former Public Sector Buyer • Founder of Bid Trawler • 40+ years' public sector experience

"I believe public procurement shouldn't be complicated. Every guide I write explains the process in plain English so you can bid with confidence."

3 minute read  •  Updated August 2026

A practical guide to understanding what the London Borough of Bromley is looking for and how to secure a place on their fostering framework.

Think about the children, not the framework

This isn't just about securing a place on a framework.

It's about providing a nurturing environment for children looked after by the London Borough of Bromley.

Yes, you're bidding for a spot on the framework, but what you're really offering is a stable, loving home for a vulnerable child.

The framework covers Independent Fostering Agency Services for these children, with the objective of ensuring their safety, well-being and development.

Remember, the focus should be on the quality of care and support you can provide.

Getting a place is the first win

Securing a spot on this framework is competitive.

You're essentially entering a mini-competition to be one of the chosen agencies that Bromley can rely on.

The value of this framework is substantial, at £29,000,000, but remember, this figure represents the entire framework, not what one agency will earn.

Winning a place doesn't guarantee work, but it opens the door to potential call-offs over the framework's duration.

Pay attention to what they say

The London Borough of Bromley is clear about their priorities.

They want agencies with the "relevant experience and technical ability" to support children looked after.

This means showcasing your track record, your team's skills and your ability to meet their needs consistently.

They've mentioned the importance of experience, so make sure your submission highlights your past successes and your ability to deliver high-quality care.

Show how you support children and families

Every agency can claim to provide fostering services, but Bromley will be looking for those who go above and beyond.

If I were evaluating bids, I'd want to see how you support not just the children, but also the families involved.

• How do you ensure smooth transitions for children?
• What support systems do you have in place for foster families?
• How do you handle challenging situations or crises?

These are the questions your submission should answer.

Evidence always beats promises

One thing I noticed when I worked in the public sector was that many agencies made promises but few backed them up with evidence.

If you have data or testimonials to support your claims, use them.

• Success stories of children you've helped
• Metrics showing improved outcomes
• Testimonials from satisfied foster families
• Evidence of professional development for your team
• Accreditation or awards from recognised bodies

These bits of evidence can make your submission stand out.

Direct award or further competition?

Being on the framework doesn't mean the work will just flow in.

You need to be prepared for how work is awarded.

Sometimes, Bromley might award a contract directly, picking an agency based on their specific needs and your proven reliability.

Other times, they'll run a further competition among framework agencies.

This means you'll need to be ready to submit quick, compelling bids for specific placements.

Don't spread yourself thin

The framework might be tempting to join across multiple lots if they exist, but focus on where you genuinely have expertise and capacity.

It’s better to excel in one area than to overreach and underdeliver.

This framework is about quality, not just quantity.

Keep standards consistent over the term

Consistency is key in fostering services.

Bromley will be looking for agencies that can maintain high standards over the entire framework duration.

This includes managing staff turnover, ensuring continuous training and maintaining compliance with regulations.

I'd want to see exactly how you plan to keep your standards high, no matter what challenges arise.

One thing I'd keep reminding myself

At the heart of this bid is the well-being of the children.

Every response should be tested against one question: "How does this benefit the children?"

This focus will guide you to write a submission that resonates with Bromley's priorities.

Common mistakes

Avoid submissions that:

• Rely solely on promises without backing them up with evidence
• Fail to address how you'll support both children and foster families
• Overlook the importance of consistency and continuity of care
• Spread too thin across too many lots without genuine capacity
• Ignore the framework's focus on experience and technical ability
• Assume that winning a place guarantees work without further effort

My Final Thoughts

The London Borough of Bromley is looking for agencies that can provide high-quality fostering services for children looked after, with a clear focus on experience and capability. With a total framework value of £29,000,000, the stakes are high, but remember, this is spread across the entire framework. The weight is on quality, meaning your written response needs to highlight your ability to deliver reliable, consistent care over the long term. Focus on the children's well-being and back up your claims with solid evidence. That's what will set your submission apart.