AN urgent appeal for new foster carers to come forward has been launched by the Western Trust as the number of children who require permanent placements with families in foster care continues to grow.
Across the Western Trust there are children of all ages who may never be able to live with their birth parents.
The vast majority of these children in care live with foster carers.
However, in the Western Trust area, there is an ongoing shortage of ‘forever homes’ where the child will live long term with the same family for the rest of their childhood.
Clare McCallion Service Manager for Foster Care in the Western Trust said: “The Western Trust is eager to invite a range of people in the community to consider offering a child a loving, nurturing home ‘to grow up in’.
“Across the Trust area there are children of all ages who may not be able to live with their birth family.
“These children need a permanent home for the rest of their childhood.
“If you are resilient, flexible and have the energy, time and commitment to take on the demands of being a foster carer or adoptive parents, please come along to our information sessions to talk to experienced social workers and foster carers and children and hear about the range of support which are offered to all foster carers.”
Western Trust Foster Carer Kate commented: “Please do not rule yourself out before you even make the call to enquire first.
“Remember there are no set rules just an opportunity to give something back to a vulnerable child and their brothers/sisters.
“Make the phone call as these children are part of our society, your local Trust needs you!
“My role as a foster carer is to listen, support and care for them, help teach them positive life skills and choices.
“The rewards are enormous as it’s the right thing to do! Every day can bring rewards but the challenges also keep you young.”
The information sessions will be held on:
• Saturday 27 February 2016 2 – 4 pm, Da Vincis Hotel, Derry
• Saturday 20 February 2016 from 2 – 4 pm, Silverbirch Hotel, Omagh
Call 02871 314244 to register your interest or if you cannot to arrange an individual visit email[email protected]
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