Could you become a foster carer to ensure that our local children are able to grow up in the area in which they belong? Children tell us how important it is for them to be able to keep in contact with their family, school and friendships with local carers when they are not able to stay at home.
Children also tell us how important their brothers and sisters are to them. We are particularly keen to hear from applicants who could offer care to sibling groups or work alongside other carers to encourage relationships between brothers and sisters. The sibling bond is one of the most important relationships we have in our lives and all children should have the opportunity to grow up with their siblings where possible. We know this as children told Scotland this in the National Care Review which led to The Promise.
All foster carers are unique, but they all have some common qualities such as being kind and caring, nurturing, understanding, non judgemental, patient and of course have a sense of humour. It is vital that you are able to work as part of a team of others involved in a child’s life. This may include family, other foster carers and professionals.
For more information read our frequently asked questions and our Foster with Clackmannanshire information pack.
This is Fostering and Out There are both informative YouTube videos that give a flavour of the rewards of fostering and the importance of the fostering relationship to children and young people.
Remuneration for Foster Carers comprises of a fee element and an allowance.
Foster carers receive a weekly fee in recognition of their skill and time committed to this role. The weekly fee is £268 for first child, and half payment for additional children in placement.
A weekly allowance is paid to cover the costs of caring for a child in foster care.
In addition to this, payments are made at birthdays, Christmas and at the summer holidays.
Foster carers are also entitled to the equivalent of four weeks short breaks each year. Foster carers are encouraged to include the children they care for in family holidays, an equivalent payment will be made where carers do not utilise their short break allowance.
If you would like to know more about fostering, please do get in touch in one of the ways below:
You can also refer to The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child - a guide for children and young people via the Scottish Government's website.
Family Connections Team
Kilncraigs, Greenside Street, Alloa, FK10 1EB
Tel: 01259 225085 / 450000
Email: fosteradopt@clacks.gov.uk