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Demand means more people are wanted to step up to care for teenagers and sibling groups in the island, with a call being made as a national fortnight of foster appreciation kicks off.
The Family Placement Service says there are currently 31 children living with 24 foster families, which is up from two years ago. But the Service says more are needed to come forward.
The plea has been made as part of a national campaign by the UK’s Fostering Network’s known as Foster Care Fortnight, which is running until 26 May.
There’s also scope for willing people to support young people with temporary accommodation when they’re ready to leave care but not yet ready to live independently. Mentorships to build emotional and general life skills are to support those aged 18-21.
Drop ins are being held this month for anyone interested; Beau Sejour on 20 May between 15:00 and 19:00, and Market Square on 24 May between 12:00 and 14:00.
It notes that fostering can be incredibly rewarding for carers while offering security to children while helping to build their confidence – whether it be a short-term placement or caring throughout their childhood.
There are multiple reasons why a child may fall into these situations, be it ill health, neglect, or experiences of domestic abuse and substance use.
Pictured: More foster carers are needed for teenagers.
Senior Supervising Social Worker Vicki Tennant, who focuses on recruitment and retention of carers, said positive examples of fostering will be shared on social media over the next two weeks to inspire commitment from prospective applicants.
“We have been really lucky to be supported by some great organisations to enable us to have drop-ins for people who are interested in fostering. Whilst our focus during Foster Care Fortnight is fostering we would also love to hear from anyone who is interested in any of our other services such as Short Break Care for Children with Disabilities, Supported Lodgings or our Term Time Host scheme,” she said.
The Service needs care for children under the age of five as a priority, to give them one-to-one time to help stimulate them, gear them up for changing environments and offer them new experiences.
Term hosts also support children from Herm and Alderney while they complete their secondary education in the island.
Karen Reade, Team Manager of the Family Placement Service, added: “Foster carers provide an invaluable role to our community and to the children and young people they care for.
“Having worked with foster carers for many years I see first-hand how the care and support that foster carers provide literally changes children’s lives. There are different types of fostering and other services we are recruiting to that might suit your circumstances and we encourage interest from anyone who thinks they can make a difference to the life of a child or young person to get in touch with our service.”
Anyone interested can also contact the Service by email at familyplacementservice@gov.gg or by phone on 01481 223182.
Organisations and companies are also encouraged to find out more.
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