People who may feel they need a change of direction or new career in the New Year are being asked to think about fostering.
(Media-Newswire.com) - People who may feel they need a change of direction or new career in the New Year are being asked to think about fostering.
Described as 'the best job in the world' by existing carers, fostering means looking after a child or children in your own home as if they were part of your family.
Lancashire County Council wants to remind people that there is always a pressing need for families for the 1600-plus children and young people who are in care. While it's not a paid post as such, allowances are payable depending on the age of the child.
County Councillor Matthew Tomlinson, cabinet member for children, young people and schools, said: "Lancashire's a big county and we look after hundreds of children who can't live with their own families. Often they've been removed for their own protection. We need to find them safe, loving, stable places to live, sometimes at very short notice.
"We regularly appeal to the people of Lancashire to think about fostering, because this is a need that doesn't go away. We need families who can offer a home to a range of children and young people from newborn babies to teenagers, and sometimes there are brothers and sisters we want to keep together.
"I've heard fostering described as the best job in the world, and I think for many people that's true. There are very few jobs that allow you to make a huge improvement in a child or young person's life – it's a very special opportunity, both for the child who is looked after and the foster carers.
"As cabinet member I'm very mindful of the parental responsibility we have for the children and young people in our care. Every time I meet foster carers I'm struck afresh by the unstinting care they provide, their enthusiasm for what they do, and the rewards it is very clearly bringing them."
Barbara Bath, county fostering manager, said: "We are looking for people who are patient, flexible and who don't give up easily. There are no special qualifications; personal qualities are much more important.
"Your circumstances – such as whether you're single, married, in a same-sex relationship, employed, own your house, have your own children – don't really matter. You need to have a spare room in your home, and it may help if you have experience of looking after or working with children, but we provide full training.
"Fostering might be perfect for people thinking about changing direction or perhaps whose children have left home. There are financial allowances to cover expenses so people will not be out of pocket. Once you're approved, there is support 24/7, further training, and social events to keep you in touch with other carers if you like. It's a real network of support."
Anyone interested in finding out more about fostering is encouraged to contact the county council's friendly team on 0800 195 1183 or visit www.lancashire.gov.uk/fostering
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