Published on:
24
March 2017
The Needs are Great, The Rewards are Greater - that's the title of a new campaign to encourage people to become foster carers for local children.
You'll be able to spot the campaign over the coming months in a variety of different places, initially featuring on Council vehicles and the envelopes going to all households containing the new Council Tax bill.
Children in Clackmannanshire need foster carers - ordinary local people who can offer a safe and secure experience and lots of fun. Along with people new to fostering, existing carers are being encouraged to contact the Council, where we can offer training opportunities, support and competitive fees and allowances. The Council would like to recruit up to 50 carers over the next 5 years to ensure that children can be looked after when this is needed.
Potential carers don't need to be a home owner, or married - single or same sex couples can also become foster carers. You do need one or more spare bedrooms that you can make comfy and warm, time, patience, understanding, and a sense of humour.
You'll be offered preparatory groups, ongoing support and advice is available and there will be opportunities to meet other foster carers regularly and hear about the rewards and challenges fostering offers. Foster carers receive a fee and allowance for each child fostered.
Celia Gray, Head of Social Services said: "Sadly some families experience difficulties in the challenges of parenting their children, and there is a growing need across Scotland for more foster carers and adopters that can offer various kinds of care placements to vulnerable children. This can vary from short respite breaks to adoption or offering a young adult a supported environment before they step out to the world on their own.
"In Clackmannashire we are committed to recruiting, supporting and developing our carers so they can care for these children - foster carers and adopters are ordinary people doing an extraordinary job, and we look forward to hearing from people and explaining more about the opportunities available."
To find out more please call 01259 225085, email fosteradopt@clacks.gov.uk or log on to clacksweb.org.uk. A drop in event will also be taking place on 17 May from 7-9pm at Alloa Town Hall where you can meet current foster carers, along with Council social work officers who can give help and advice.