Published on:
12
June 2023
Foster carers from Clackmannanshire gathered for a celebration to mark Fostering Fortnight which ran from 15 to 28 May.
The event saw foster carers with a combined 188 years of service presented with recognition awards by Sharon Robertson, chief social work officer.
Special recognition was given to Margaret and Matt Cousin for the amazing contribution they’ve made to the lives of children and young people in the incredible 42 years they’ve spent as foster carers in Clackmannanshire.
Margaret described her and Matt’s rewarding experience as foster carers and her joy that many of their relationships with the young people they’ve looked after over the years have lasted into their adulthood.
This year Fostering Fortnight had the theme ‘fostering communities’.
Clackmannanshire Council has a strong community of foster carers who meet regularly through support groups, training, and social events.
At the event foster carers reflected on how their community has evolved and strengthened following the Covid pandemic, and how important friendship, shared experience and relationships are to them.
Council Leader Ellen Forson said: “Clackmannanshire Council relies on our foster carers, like Margaret and Matt, who play a vital contribution in ensuring that local children in Clackmannanshire can grow up in their own community close to all that is important to them.
“Foster carers have a significant role to play in helping us keep The Promise to children and young people who are not able to stay within their family for a range of reasons.”
There is a range of fostering opportunities available in Clackmannanshire, including short breaks, emergency care and medium-term placements for children and supported lodgings placements for young people leaving care or fleeing conflict from other countries.
There are no formal qualifications needed to be a foster carer but you must have a spare room, a sense of humour and a big heart.
Clackmannanshire’s family placement team, foster carers, and young people from our Oor Clacks Voice group will be at Tillicoultry gala on 18 June. Why not drop by their stall for a chat?
If you would like to find out more in the meantime please visit the council website or contact fosteradopt@clacks.gov.uk