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16 March 2009 |
Appeal For Foster Carers For Edinburgh's Children |
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There are currently around 50 children waiting to be fostered in Edinburgh so the Council is appealing for more people to come forward this month in a campaign through press, radio and bus advertising, as well as posters and leaflets being distributed across the Capital and Lothians.
Fostering means providing temporary care for children who cannot live with their own families, sometimes for weeks, months or for the rest of their childhood. Children who need to be fostered are all ages and come into care for a wide range of reasons and we are especially needing people to get in touch who can commit to caring full-time.
Councillor Marilyne MacLaren, Convenor of Education, Children and Families says: "We're keen to hear from men and women with varying backgrounds as there's no one person who makes the ideal foster carer. So please don't think you'll be turned down because you're single, for example, over 40, or don't own your own home. What does matter is that you're understanding, patient, committed have an enthusiasm for looking after children and young people.
"In return we offer comprehensive preparation and training, a high level of professional support, and a weekly fee plus allowances. In this current economic climate, working as a foster carer could provide the opportunity for a career change for those wanting to work from home."
Julie English has been fostering with the Council for five years and looks after three siblings. She said: "I gave up my job in an office to dedicate my time to being a foster carer and I've never looked back. My own children have accepted the kids into the family and they treat them as their brothers and sisters. They come on holiday with us and we do normal things that every family does. It's amazing to see how they've come on since they came to live with us - even friends and family remark that they can see the positive difference. And although it's not always plain sailing, knowing that I've made a difference makes it worthwhile."
Councillor MacLaren added: "We have more than 300 dedicated and committed carers who work day-in day-out to improve the lives of Edinburgh's vulnerable children and young people. But there are still children in the city requiring temporary and emergency care and I would stress the need for more people to come forward to help in these children. With your help we can ensure that these children are given the support they need to help them thrive."
If you think you might have what it takes, I urge you to find out more. Please take the next step and pick up the phone today."
Anyone interested in finding out more about fostering can call the City of Edinburgh Council free on 0800 174 833 or visit www.edinburgh.gov.uk/fostering
Notes: Lots of different people can foster a child with the City of Edinburgh Council: You must be over 21 years old. You can be single, married or part of a long-term relationship. You can be a tenant or homeowner. You might have children of your own, or you might not. You don't need to be well-off or in work |
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