People urged to consider being foster parents as demand for homes surges
People in Sunderland are being urged to consider becoming foster parents – after a huge increase in the number of children needing a home.
Independent fostering organisation, The Fostering Company North East, is calling on people intending to make changes to their lives and careers because of the coronavirus pandemic to consider fostering.
The number of children needing foster care in the UK has risen by 36% in the last year and the not-for-profit agency says fostering can provide the job stability and flexibility, which people are valuing more, post-pandemic – and it’s a vocation which can be done from home and is suitable for singletons, couples and families.
Latest figures show there are 240 register foster carers in Sunderland – looking after 460 children
Camilla Hunter, registered manager at the agency, said: “The pandemic has changed how people want to live their lives and has reminded us that life is too short to not do something you love.
“We currently have a network of incredible carers but we’re looking for more people who have the potential to become great foster carers to support the rising number of children and young people being taken into care.”
She added: “We’d like to encourage caring individuals, who may be revaluating their career situation because of the coronavirus pandemic, to consider a career in fostering.
“There is no need for previous experience, and people may find they have transferable skills from current or past employment that will be invaluable.
"We offer 24/7 support from qualified and experienced staff and a wide range of specialist training and are keen to hear from people who are nurturing, compassionate and enjoy supporting others.”
People from all backgrounds and communities can be considered to become foster carers but they must be over 25 years of age.
This includes single people, co-habiting couples, LGBTQ+ couples and people living in rented accommodation. You will need a spare room for each foster child.
You can find out more go to www.five-rivers.org/fostering/events/ to find the dates of upcoming virtual information events and book a place.
The next virtual events will take place over Zoom tomorrow, at 7pm and Wednesday, January 26, at 11am.