Anyone interested in becoming a foster carer is invited to attend drop-in sessions which are being held in November. Fostering First, which is the organisation responsible for foster care across the Island, is hosting the sessions and staff will be on hand to answer questions and give advice on the challenges and rewards which becoming a foster carer can offer. The drop-in events are at The Children’s Centre, Woodbourne Road, Douglas, on Thursday November 15 from 2pm to 7pm, and at St Pauls Hall, Ramsey, on Wednesday November 21 from 2pm to 7pm.
Both sessions are informal and informative and give anyone interested in fostering the opportunity to ask specific questions and speak to staff from the Fostering First team in person, without making any commitment. There are several types of fostering. Short term fostering - which may be for a few weeks to several months; emergency fostering - for when a child comes into care suddenly; long term fostering - for when a child is unable to return home, and respite care which means providing regular care for children for short periods of time as a support to their family or other foster carers. Fiona Lassen, Head of Fostering Services at Fostering First, said:
“Placing children in a family environment with foster carers can make a huge difference to their development. The drop-in sessions are very relaxed and informal and ideal for anyone who wants to know more about fostering to talk to us and discuss any questions or concerns they may have.”
Foster carers can come from a wide range of backgrounds and age groups, and although they must be over 21 there is no upper age limit. Carers can be married, divorced or single, or co-habiting. It does not matter whether they have their own children or not, or whether or not they own their own home. Those who are approved as foster carers will receive training to develop knowledge and skills to help them care for children, and Fostering First will provide ongoing training packages and financial remuneration to cover the expenses of caring for a child. Carers will also receive regular supervision and support from Fostering First. For more information about Fostering First go to www.thechildrenscentre.org.im/fosteringfirst, email fosteringfirst@thechildrenscentre.org.im or call 631947. Inquiries about becoming a foster carer can also be made by visiting Fostering First’s offices at 17 Village Walk, Onchan.
If you are interested in becoming a foster carer you can email fosteringfirst@thechildrenscentre.org.im or call 631947. Inquiries about becoming a foster carer can also be made by visiting Fostering First’s offices at 17 Village Walk, Onchan. More general information can be found at http://www.thechildrenscentre.org.im/what-we-do/fostering-first/.
