Call goes out to potential foster carers (From Thurrock Gazette)

Call goes out to potential foster carers

4:15pm Wednesday 8th July 2009

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AN appeal has been launched to encourage more people to take up foster caring.

An open evening organised by Thurrock Council’s Fostering Service was held at the Park Inn, North Stifford on Wednesday July 1.

The evening included a presentation about foster care and was followed with a buffet and an opportunity for enquirers to chat to social workers, team members and foster carers.

As well as information about general fostering, there was a specific focus on the Shared Care and Befriending Service.

Shared Care is a service that offers short breaks to disabled children and their families.

They provide respite care in their own homes as well as fun and stimulating activities.

Befrienders mainly take the children and young people enabling them to take part in a variety of activities encouraging the child’s independence.

Cabinet member for Children’s Services, Cllr Sue MacPherson, said: “Both types of carers help in building a child’s confidence and self esteem.

“The child’s safety and welfare are paramount and carers need to have time, patience and a sense of humour.”

She added: “There is a great need for more foster carers and the Thurrock Fostering Team is always recruiting for people to provide this vital role.

“Thurrock Council offers all the support and assistance people need to make good foster carers.

“I encourage everyone who has a passion for caring and befriending to be a part of this great scheme Thurrock has to help families.”

If you would like more information about fostering in Thurrock, or are an existing carer and require more information regarding career progression, contact the Fostering Team on 0800 6521256.

Alternatively you can visit www.thurrockfostering.gov.uk or email your enquiry to fostering.adoption@thurrock.gov.uk.

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