Have you ever considered fostering, but are unsure whether you have the right skills? Or perhaps you’d like to find out more about what is involved?
Cheshire East Council is holding an open evening for people who would like to learn more about the role of a foster carer.
The event, on March 7, takes place at Middlewich Community Church, 34-35 Brooks Lane, Middlewich, CW10 0JG. It will start at 6pm and last approximately two hours.
It aims to promote the fact that anyone over the age of 21 can foster, regardless of whether they are single, married or living with a partner, and whether or not they have children of their own.
People will be able to find out about the different types of foster care, including emergency overnight stays, short breaks for children with disabilities and long-term support until the young person reaches adulthood.
They can also learn about the support foster carers receive, which includes training, full ongoing support, an allowance to cover the daily costs of looking after each child and a skills-based fee.
The open evening is part of the Council’s continuing drive to recruit an extra 40 foster carer households to look after an increasing number of cared-for children.
Cheshire East Council along with Stockport MBC will also have a stand at Handforth Dean Shopping Centre on Wednesday 2nd and Friday 4th March between 10.00am and 3.00pm.
Councillor Hilda Gaddum, Cabinet member with responsibility for children and families, said: “Currently there is a shortage of more than 10,000 foster carers in the UK.
“Sadly, the situation is no different in Cheshire East. We urgently need more people who can offer a secure and caring home for a child who cannot live with their own family.
“We hope this open evening will help us reach out to people who may have considered fostering but are unsure about what is involved, or whether they would be right for the role.
“There is no such thing as a typical foster carer. We need a diverse range of people with different skills and qualities so more children can be placed in the right home, reflecting the Council’s commitment to improving life opportunities for everyone in Cheshire East.
“Fostering involves much more than just providing a home for a child. Carers support youngsters, assist them to develop and grow and act on their behalf, alongside a team of social care professionals.
“I urge anyone who thinks they may have the skills to foster to come along to the open evening to find out more about this hugely rewarding role.”
Currently there are 180 foster carer households looking after more than 300 children in Cheshire East.
Anyone who is unable to attend the open evening can find out more information at www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/fostering or by contacting the fostering and adoption team on 0300 123 3223.
Information is also available through the You Can Foster campaign – a regional fostering recruitment drive comprising 23 local authorities, including Cheshire East Council. Details can be found on the website at www.youcanfoster.org or by telephone on 0800 634 7052.
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