Recruitment Drive to Attract More Foster Carers
| Published: 8th July 2008 17:25 |
In a bid to encourage more people to become foster carers, Stockport Council is advertising on 10 black cabs around the borough.
The taxis display a bold and colourful advert appealing for people to consider fostering an older child. This is currently a Council priority as there is a national shortage of foster carers for this age group.
Councillor Mark Weldon, Executive Member for Children & Young People, said: "Whilst we receive quite a lot of enquiries, for some reason people don't seem as interested in caring for older children - particularly boys aged between 8 and 16. Perhaps younger children are seen as cute or easy to look after, but I would argue that looking after older children brings tremendous rewards. To play a part in positively guiding a young person through life is a vital role which can be extremely satisfying for a foster carer."
Stockport Council's fostering service has been classed as 'outstanding' in a recent Ofsted inspection and the financial allowances paid to foster carers are very generous compared to other local authorities and private agencies.
By recruiting more carers for children aged over 11 the Council is looking to achieve the best possible outcome for the most vulnerable looked after children.
As well as generous allowances, Stockport Council is offering foster carers excellent benefits including 24 hour support, training and the opportunity to enjoy a range of social activities with other foster carers.
For more information about becoming a Foster Carer, contact the Council's Family Placement Team on 0161 947 4646 or visit www.stockport.gov.uk/fostering
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