New push for foster parents

OLDHAM Council has joined authorities across the North-West to tackle a shortfall in foster carers.

The 23 authorities have created the largest ever regional fostering campaign under the banner You Can Foster — aimed at dispelling widely-held myths about foster care.

The campaign will also showcase the diversity of potential foster carers throughout the region and how they can make a real difference to a child’s life.

It was launched today with a multi-media campaign featuring experienced foster carers.

There is a shortfall of up to 2,000 foster carers in the North-West and more than 8,200 across England.

Over the past 30 years there have been significant changes in foster care and the authorities want to reflect these and attract a wider variety of people than ever before.

A suitable applicant can be from their 20s upwards, single, renters or home-owners, married or living together, in same sex or mixed-sex relationships.

It’s hoped the campaign will attract at least 150 new carers.

Councillor Jack Hulme, cabinet member for children and families, said: “The message of our campaign is simple — if you have room in your heart and a room in your home we want to hear from you.

“This is the most dynamic and far-reaching campaign North-West local authorities have undertaken in the field of foster care.

“It’s aim is to dispel many of the popular misconceptions that surround foster caring and showcase the diversity of people who can become foster carers.

“This campaign focuses on foster carers and we hope that by doing so we can significantly increase the number of people that apply, to eventually become foster carers.”

Christine Garforth, an Oldham Council foster carer and one of those featured in a TV advert, said: “Becoming a foster carer is one of the most rewarding things I have ever done. To give a child a sense of security and guidance at a critical period in their life is immensely satisfying.

“As a local authority foster carer, you will become part of a professional team with a wide support network. You will receive excellent training to guide you through your journey as a foster carer.

“In addition, alongside financial support you will also receive practical and emotional support from both foster carers and local authority professionals.”

Oldham Council Fostering Service currently has 134 fostering families, providing placements for around 185 children.

It provides emergency and short-term placements, long-term placements and short breaks for children and young people with special needs and disabilities.

For more information call 0800 634 7052 or visit www.youcanfoster.org