A drive to tackle a shortage of foster carers across Nottingham has been launched so more children in the region can be given a safe, family home.
Nottinghamshire County Council currently needs foster homes for 208 children across the county – and just over 100 of those are aged 11 or over.
Councillor Kate Foale, vice-chairman of the Children and Young People Service’s Committee and lead on children’s social care said that the pressure to recruit new foster carers is ongoing: “Finding sufficient numbers of the right carers is a challenge faced by all fostering services.
“In Notts, we are particularly looking for foster carers to look after sibling groups and older children to provide them with a loving, secure home.”
Latest figures from the council reveal that there are 634 children in foster care across Nottinghamshire with 426 fostering households.
“We need foster carers based in Nottinghamshire, who have the right skills and experience to do a job that is so rewarding,” added Coun Foale. “If you are loving, understanding and resilient and would like to make a positive impact on a child’s life, we would very much like to hear from you.”
[message title=”READ MORE:” title_color=”#1e73be” title_bg=”#dddddd” title_icon=”” content_color=”#000000″ content_bg=”#eaeaea” id=””] [/message]
To help recruit more foster carers, the council is holding three further drop in sessions at its libraries over the next couple of months:
- Thursday, September 29, 2 to 4pm – Hucknall Library, South Street, NG15 7BS
- Thursday, October 20, 4 to 6pm – West Bridgford Library, Bridgford Road, NG2 6AT
- Wednesday, November 16, 4 to 6pm – Newark Library, Beaumond Gardens, Balderton Gate, NG24 1UW.
People who are interested in becoming foster carers are invited to just come along and meet a friendly member of the fostering team.
Council fostering recruitment officer Elaine Mills said: “The sessions are very informal and are for those considering becoming foster carers who would like to find out more.
“There’s no need to book – just turn up any time between the start and end times and have a chat to one of us. It’s a chance for people to ask us questions in person and get more information.
“We’re looking for foster carers for children and young people of all ages, but are especially interested in speaking to anyone with a particular interest in fostering sibling groups, older children or children and young people with more complex needs where our need is greatest.”
The County Council is currently showcasing a video on its website highlighting how a loving home and stable family life can be the foundation for a child achieving his or her goals.
To watch the video and find out more about fostering visit www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/fostering or call 0300 500 8080.
