Lincolnshire County Council puts out call for more foster carers amidst surge in demand
71% of people who initiate a fostering application eventually withdraw
Deborah Crawford, Lincolnshire County Council's head of service for fostering and adoption admits that "like other regions, we're witnessing an increased demand for fostering."
The Children's Commissioner for England, Dame Rachel de Souza, revealed that a huge 71% of people who start the fostering application process eventually withdraw.
She believes it's down to bureaucratic deterrents and suggested that the government could draw inspiration from the recent Homes from Ukraine scheme housing Ukrainian refugees.
Of the 735 children in care in Lincolnshire, 498 are in foster homes, 94 having been re-housed with vetted family members of close friends, while 29 are still seeking long-term foster placements.
Lincolnshire County Council plans to increase the number of fostering households by 60, with a particular focus on carers for sibling groups and older children.
In response to the surge in national demand for carers, the government has invested £27m into the foster care system.
Ann Martin, an experienced foster carer in Lincoln says, "The situation is ever-evolving. I'd urge anyone even slightly curious to inquire. Be open to learning about it."
Lincolnshire County Council is also keen on recruiting short-term carers who can foster for short breaks.