cOULD yOU Be a fOSTer ParenT? ‘It could be one of the best decisions you’ve ever made’
W
e may be in lockdown, but life isn’t. That is why the National Fostering Agency is actively looking to recruit more foster
parents. ‘There is always a need for foster parents,’ said Pam Goodfellow from the agency, ‘and we are always looking to talk to people about what fostering can offer them and they can offer a foster child.’ Fostering provides a full-time, safe and nurturing family environment for children and young people in need. Foster parents must be over 21 and have the necessary bedroom space to accommodate the children. You might care for a child for two or three days through to months or years. Each fostering arrangement is tailored to the child’s unique circumstances and your own. And just as there is no stereotypical foster child there is not one type of foster parent. A broad range of carers provides more choice for
‘If fostering is for you, you will find it the most magical and rewarding career you can ever have. ‘Helping a child grow up within a safe and nurturing environment is one of the most enriching and rewarding decisions you will ever make. ‘And we are here each step of the way for you and the children.’
the equally diverse range of children and young people. The agency welcomes applications from people of all ethnic, cultural and religious backgrounds, physical abilities and the LGBTQ+ community. You can be single, married, a homeowner or a tenant - what matters is your ability to care and nurture. The agency is there all the way with a reassuring selection process and excellent training. Once you foster you will have a dedicated social worker and a ‘foster buddy’ a more experienced foster parent you are paired with for friendly support. ‘We are one of the UK’s most experienced agencies and we’ll support you every step of the way – starting with your application to become a carer,’ said Pam. Your fostering allowance is the amount paid for the care of a child and covers food, clothing, travel, activities, savings and anything else your foster children may need. It includes enough to help with your own living expenses. National Fostering Group pays a far greater allowance than the minimum amount set by the UK government. ‘We don’t want you to struggle financially and you should always be able to give your foster child what they need,’ said Pam who is ready and waiting to discuss fostering with you. Foster parents who can look after sibling groups are especially needed right now. If you could help keep brothers and sisters together you would be playing a vital role in fostering today.
- Pam Goodfellow, National Fostering Agency
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