Bradford Council’s Fostering Service is appealing for people who can provide something very special to a teenager and child – a loving and secure family home that will allow them to flourish and thrive.
The Fostering Service is looking to find 30 new foster families to care for Bradford’s teenagers as they mark Foster Care Fortnight, a nationwide campaign run by the Fostering Network. This year’s campaign theme is ‘Time to foster, time to care’ which recognises that people take a long time to contact fostering services due to other commitments in their busy lives. But Bradford’s Fostering Service wants to get the message across that now is the right time to find out more about fostering.
They are looking for people who are skilled and experienced at working with or caring for teenagers; who are passionate about inspiring and supporting them and can provide them with a great family life.
Although teenagers are the focus of this campaign they are also looking for carers for:
* Children aged five to 18.
* Children with disabilities.
* Large groups of brothers and sisters.
* Part time foster carers to provide short breaks – regular overnight stays, weekend breaks, care during the school holidays and sometimes weekday care.
Foster carers receive a weekly fee based on how many children they care for and an allowance to cover costs.
People can be married, single, unmarried couples, gay or lesbian, have their own children, a homeowner or living in rented property – all are eligible. All children are different so a wide range of people will meet their needs. But all applicants need to be over 21 and have a spare room.
Michael Jameson, Bradford Council’s Strategic Director for Children’s Services, said: “We currently have a great network of foster carers but we always need more. It is a challenge but a really worthwhile role that can have a real impact on a child’s life.”
Anyone wishing to find out more about becoming a foster carer can visit www.fosterbradford.co.uk contact the recruitment line on 01274 434331 or email adoptionandfostering@bradford.gov.uk
The fostering service is available for informal chats and advice over the next two weeks at:
• Bingley town centre/ library Monday 23rd May 11.30am to 1.30pm
• Keighley town hall Tuesday 24th May 11.30am to 1.30pm
• Ilkley library Wednesday 25th May 11.30am to 1.30pm
Bradford Parents On The Go 