Council and democracy

Call for foster carers as fostering fortnight begins

While fostering can be a challenge, it can also be very rewarding. Debbie, a Croydon foster carer for five years, explains: "The satisfaction you feel when you see someone you have looked after change, develop and turn their life around is fantastic. The children I have fostered have become part of my extended family - and Mothers' Day at my house resembles a florist!

"Yes, at times, fostering can place demands on all the family but it is also very, very rewarding. The support you are given is brilliant and there is always someone to speak to out-of-hours or to ask for advice."

Foster carers are especially needed for children and young people aged between 10 and 16, from white British, black African, Caribbean and dual-heritage backgrounds.

These young people are likely to have difficulties in their relationships, struggle with their education and may not even be in school. They may be experiencing emotional and behavioural difficulties that will present a challenge to anyone offering to care for them.

However, as Debbie says: "I find it very satisfying to foster teenagers as the public perception of them being out of control can be so wrong. Often, all they need is bit of love and attention and sometimes just giving them a break away from their families can change their lives for the better."

Carers are also needed to look after babies and preschool children. These carers will need to be at home full-time and be able to assist in contact with birth families up to five times a week. There is also a need for more foster carers who can accommodate up to three siblings.

Croydon's cabinet member for children's services and adult learning, Councillor Maria Gatland, said: "Fostering is a big commitment but, as Debbie testifies, it can be very rewarding. By providing some continuity in these children's troubled lives you can help them reach their potential and become independent and confident adults. If you have ever thought about fostering, why not come along on 10 May and find out exactly what is involved?"

Foster carers in Croydon are given ongoing help and advice including a mentoring scheme, a confidential counselling service and a 24-hour support service from qualified social workers. Carers can also take the opportunity to become NVQ-qualified in caring for children and young people.

If you are unable to attend the information meeting please phone 0800 389 0129 with your details and a fostering information pack will be sent to you.