Urgent need for more foster carers in the East Riding
The County Council wants more people to consider becoming one
People in the East Riding are being asked to consider becoming foster carers as there is an urgent need for more.
The County Council says teens in foster care are at an age when they can really benefit from the guidance they are given. Your influence can act as a launch pad for them in life and you might be surprised at how quickly you can see a difference.
It also says there is a support package available to East Riding foster carers. This includes free membership to the gym and classes at East Riding Leisure centres for all members of the household; high quality training and access to qualifications; a generous allowance and annual loyalty payment; practical, social and emotional support; and regular free events exclusively for the council’s foster carers.
Foster carers do not need formal qualifications, they do not need to live in the East Riding, to own their own home or have children of their own. They do need a spare room and the commitment to meet the needs of a child who needs help, care and support at a difficult time in their life.
Foster Care Fortnight runs until Sunday 22nd May, the theme this year is ‘fostering communities’ and the campaign to shine a light on the many ways people across the fostering community support each other.
Councillor Victoria Aitken, portfolio holder for children and young people’s education, health and wellbeing at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: “Foster carers and their families are exceptional people. If you have the desire to help and can give the time, energy and commitment, I would strongly recommend you come along to one of the council’s drop in events so you can have a chat with the team and find out how you can become involved in the much-needed and highly valued role as foster carer for East Riding children. On offer is an excellent support package and excellent training opportunities.”
Forthcoming drop in events:
Saturday, 14 May, Toll Gavel Church Hall, Toll Gavel, Beverley 10am-12.30pm
Thursday 26 May, Withernsea Library and Customer Service Centre, 1-3pm
Saturday, 11 June at East Riding Leisure Haltemprice, 9.30am-12pm
For details of further information events or to request an information pack, visit: www.eastriding.gov.uk/fostering
Anyone interested in finding out more can contact fish@eastriding.gov.uk or tel (01482) 396469. For updates and news and event information, follow East Riding Fostering on Facebook.