Importance of considering becoming a foster carer

BARNARDO’S foster carers look after children across the Yorkshire, giving them the best chance to have a happier and positive future. But we are concerned that the pandemic has led to a sharp increase in requests for foster care, and are asking for more potential carers to come forward.

Across England, the number of referrals to Barnardo’s fostering services was 13,030 between April and December 2020, a stark rise from the figure of 8,302 for the same period in 2019.

The pandemic and lockdowns have increased pressure on vulnerable families, with job losses, deepening poverty and worsening mental health all leading to family breakdown. These pressures will likely impact more families as the pandemic continues.

It’s more important than ever for more people to consider becoming foster carers to ensure the right loving families are available in the right location when children need them. Without enough foster carers, children will have to wait longer before finding the best match, which may have a hugely negative impact on them.

Being a foster carer can be a challenge, but our carers tell us that opening your heart and your home to a vulnerable child is one of the most rewarding things you can do, giving children the life skills and care they need to build brighter futures.

Barnardo’s is calling on people over 21, who have a spare room and the time and commitment to support a child to get in touch and consider fostering. Barnardo’s welcomes foster carers from all walks of life, including single people, those from the LGBTQ+ community and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds.

Our Yorkshire Fostering Service offers comprehensive training and support to our foster carers, including extensive support throughout the application process, intensive induction and regular ongoing training and one to ones, as well as dedicated out-ofhours access to a social worker and a generous financial fee.

■■To find out more about becoming a foster carer with Barnardo’s, visit www.barnardos.org.uk/fostering call 0113 263 1464, or email us at afby@barnardos.org.uk

Judith Sargent, Barnardo’s Adoption and Fostering

Operations Manager, Yorkshire.