Plea for long-term foster carers

OLDHAM Fostering Service urgently needs long-term carers.

Most children who are fostered will return to their families, but where this is not possible, some will have to live with a foster family until they are grown up and are ready to live on their own.

The majority of youngsters in long-term foster care are boys aged eight and older. Some need to be placed with their brothers and sisters.

All the children will have had difficult times in their lives, but they all have one thing in common — the need to feel secure.

Long-term fostering allows a child to have a stable life and stay in a family where they feel safe, while maintaining contact with their family.

Sue Wilson, a long-term carer said: “It gives a child a sense of belonging and permanence, and helps them to become part of a family, something that sometimes they haven’t experienced before.”

Reward

Councillor Kay Knox, lead member for children, young people and families, added: “Choosing to foster a child until they reach adulthood is a big commitment, but one which brings so much reward.

“Watching a child grow and develop, sharing their ups and downs and celebrating their achievements makes it all worthwhile.

“You really will make a difference to a child’s life.”

If you are over 21, have a spare bedroom and can provide a permanent home for a child call Carol Mellor on 0161-770 6619 or 6600, or e-mail carol.mellor@oldham.gov.uk 

For more information, visit www.oldham.gov.uk/fostering