New campaign launches to highlight the fostering crisis in Thames Valley
In 2016, 2066 children and young people were referred to FCA from local authorities in Thames Valley, many in urgent need of a foster family. The awareness fortnight aims to highlight the fantastic work done by foster carers in the region who are helping to transform the lives of looked after children and young people.
However, foster care doesn’t just transform the lives of the young people who are fostered, it also has the power to positively change the lives of foster carers, their families and wider support network who are involved in fostering, that’s why FCA are keen to encourage those interested in fostering to take that first step into enquiring about being a foster carer.
Ian Langley, regional manager at FCA Thames Valley, said: “Many people would love to foster but they believe that their personal circumstances, or skills and experience, would prevent them from doing so. Whether you’re single, over 50, childless or in a same sex relationship, fostering could be for you, so we’re encouraging people to make that initial enquiry.
“Foster Care Fortnight is the ideal opportunity to meet the FCA team at one our regional offices or events and have an informal face-to-face chat to find out more about fostering. People are often surprised by how much support and training is available and this is a key driver for many people coming forward and becoming a foster carer with FCA.”
The FCA Thames Valley team will be holding an information coffee morning at their office in Wendover between 10am and 12pm on the 8th May 2017. The drop in event will provide information to people interested in taking the first step into providing foster care. In addition to finding out about the extensive support the organisation provides to their foster carers, visitors will be able to chat to some of their current carers and the FCA support team, who will be able to answer any questions.
Foster carers with FCA receive frequent visits and contact from a dedicated and qualified social worker. Support is also provided through an education officer, support workers and therapists to help carers meet the needs of the child or young person. Ongoing training, a financial allowance, access to carer support groups and organised family activities are all contributing factors as to why FCA placements are 22% more stable than the national average.
More information about regional events are available on the website www.thefca.co.uk, or call 0800 022 4330 and speak to one of FCA’s fostering experts. Alternatively email startyourjourney@thefca.co.uk.