Renfrewshire appeal for foster carers

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Renfrewshire Council is appealing for caring local people to consider becoming foster carers for children from Renfrewshire whose families are unable to look after them.

The appeal for more foster carers in Renfrewshire comes as part the UK-wide campaign for Fostering Fortnight (12 - 26 May).

Currently, there are 189 Renfrewshire children benefiting from the opportunity to experience a stable family life with foster carers. However, more carers are always needed.

In particular, the council's fostering and adoption service is keen to hear from people who could provide a home for older children (aged 12 and above).

Councillor Eileen McCartin, convener of Renfrewshire Council’s community and family care policy board, explains: "Foster carers have a vital role to play in giving children whose families are unable to look after them, the best possible start in life, and more foster carers are urgently needed in Renfrewshire. We are looking for people who can look after children of all ages, but are particularly interested in speaking to people would like to care for older children. These children have to be prepared for making the transition to living independently, and a foster carer can give them valuable support and guidance to help them when the day comes and they move out on their own."

"We're looking for people who are good listeners, resilient, flexible, optimistic and great role models, to think about fostering. If you think you have these qualities, we'd love to hear from you. Foster carers are given a very good allowance to cover the cost of caring for a child and receive training and ongoing support from our fostering team."

Anyone interested in finding out more can get in touch with Renfrewshire Fostering and Adoption Service by calling 0141 842 5158/59 or sending an email to childcare@renfrewshire.gov.uk.

Press release: Monday 19 May 2008.