Anyone interested in becoming a foster carer can find out everything they need to know at a drop-in session on Friday July 24 from noon to 2pm. The session is being hosted by Fostering First at Bourne House, 97 Woodbourne Road, Douglas. Foster carers can come from a wide range of backgrounds and it’s not essential for them to have parenting experience. However, some experience and knowledge of children is beneficial. What all foster carers must be is caring and understanding, and possess the ability and desire to help a child grow emotionally. Foster carers must be over 21 (there is no upper age limit), and they can be married, divorced or single, or co-habiting. It does not matter whether or not they own their own home. All foster carers (especially those new to fostering) receive training, help, and support from Fostering First as well as financial remuneration to cover the expenses of caring for a child.

Nigel Howard, Deputy Fostering Manager at Fostering First, said:

“The sessions are very relaxed and informal and are an ideal opportunity for anyone who is thinking about becoming a foster carer to come along, have a chat with our experienced team, and raise any questions they have. We would never pretend that becoming a foster carer is an easy decision to make, but it can also be incredibly rewarding for foster carers to see a child flourish in life because of the loving environment they have provided.”

Drop-in sessions are held every month at Bourne House, 97 Woodbourne Road, Douglas, with more sessions in the next few months on the following dates and times:

• August 27: 5pm to 7pm
• September 25: Noon to 2pm
• October 22: 5pm to 7pm
• November 27: Noon to 2pm
• December 16: 4pm to 6pm

Fostering First is responsible for foster care across the Island and is part of The Children’s Centre charity. To find out more about fostering just attend one of the drop-in sessions or contact Fostering First by phoning 631947, or emailing fosteringfirst@thechildrenscentre.org.im 

You also find more information at http://www.thechildrenscentre.org.im/

Photo - Nigel Howard, Deputy Manager at Fostering First.