12 June 2008

Local Events to Promote Fostering

To mark Fostering Fortnight in May, the Southern Health and Social Care Trust hosted events in Craigavon and Banbridge to raise awareness of the need for foster carers.

A number of people attended a coffee morning at Bocombra Family Placement Service, Portadown and a drop-in session at Banbridge Social Services Centre to chat to staff and foster carers.

Martin McGrath, Head of Family Placement Services for the Trust says: “We are always looking for new foster carers. We need people from all backgrounds to care for children who cannot be looked after within their own families. This could be for a number of reasons for example, health or social issues, relationship problems or lack of support. Fostering provides security and stability for a child in such circumstances. We need carers who can provide emergency, short term, respite and long term placements for children from all ages and there is a particular need for carers who are willing to look after teenagers.”

Allowances are paid to cover the cost of caring for children. The Trust welcomes anyone who is interested in fostering. You may be single, young or older, employed or unemployed. You don’t need to be a homeowner but you do need to have space to accommodate a child.

The Trust is running a series of Information Sessions throughout the area for those interested in finding out more about fostering. This will provide an opportunity to hear from experienced social workers and foster carers about what fostering entails.

Time	Venue	Local Contact
Wednesday 18th June 2008 at 8.00 pm	The Iveagh Suite, Banbridge, Social Services Offices, Banbridge	Family Placement Team Portadown Tel: 028 383 37181
Wednesday 17th September 2008 at 8.00 pm	The Baby Clinic Room, Lurgan Social Services Office	Family Placement Team Portadown Tel: 028 3833 7181
Tuesday 14th October 2008 at 7.00 pm	The Conference Room, Portadown Health Centre,	Family Placement Team Portadown Tel: 028 3833 7181

To find out more about fostering contact your local Family Placement Team

Tel: 028 3833 7181