Pandemic leads to more inquiries about fostering
LEICESTERSHIRE County Council says it has seen an increase in residents getting in touch to find out about fostering.
Since April, the council’s fostering team has received almost 400 inquiries from people wanting to do something positive and make a difference to the lives of others.
There are currently 683 children in care across Leicestershire.
Foster carers must be over 21 and have a spare room in their home, as well as patience, understanding and lots of love and support to offer a child. There is no upper age limit and full training is provided.
Deborah Taylor, cabinet member for children and families, said: “We know that living through this situation has encouraged people to re-evaluate their lives and do something to help others. For many, fostering is something they’ve been thinking about for a long time.
“i want to thank people for answering our call over the last few months, by responding to our adverts, contacting us for more information and asking, ‘how can i help?’. i would urge residents to keep supporting children in care by getting in touch with our team if they think they might be able to foster and would like to know more.”
Leicestershire’s foster carers have access to 24-hour support to
help them achieve the best outcomes for young people in their care. There are many different ways to foster, including long-term fostering, meaning that children remain in a permanent placement with their foster carer, and supported lodgings which involves offering a room and support to a young person over the age of 16.
Specialist foster carers roles are also available, for those from professional caring backgrounds to work with some of the county’s most complex young people, supported by a dedicated team at the council.
To find out more about the different ways to foster, visirt www. fosteringleicestershire.com or call 0116 305 05 05.