Barrow buses carry fostering message

All this month Barrow buses carry a message to the people of Barrow about long term fostering. 60 children in Cumbria need permanent homes and everyone is being asked to take 60 seconds to think about fostering and whether they could give a permanent home to a child in need. 

Cumbria County Council's 2003 recruitment campaign for foster carers highlights the need for more carers to look after children in need in Cumbria. Many people who consider fostering but decline, decide not to foster because they would find it difficult to `give the child up'. This campaign highlights the fact that some children need long term fostering and are looking for permanent homes with new families. County Councillor John Mallinson, Cabinet spokesman for Care and social services explains why the Council need more people to find out more about fostering. He says, 

"Cumbria County Council is committed to developing and supporting fostering services for children looked after. Foster carers have a vital role to play in helping children to thrive. Many people think that there are age and other restrictions precluding them from fostering but generally that is untrue. There are no age limits, up or down - so long as you can demonstrate a mature, responsible attitude and enough energy for the task. Single people are needed as well as married or cohabiting couples because a single carer can better meet some children's needs. Sixty children are looking for long-term placements. They want permanent homes and want to belong with somebody. We are looking for ordinary people. You don't have to have any special qualifications to care for children and help them to develop and get the best from their life chances, you just have to care and be prepared to invest time and commitment." 

Foster carers are paid allowances to support the children or young people in their care and are trained and supported by social workers from Cumbria Social services family Placement teams. There are sixty children waiting for your help. Lots of people are able to foster who are either bringing up or have brought up well adjusted, happy children. Fees and allowances are paid to all foster carers and there is a chance to earn more as experience increases. 

Anyone interested in knowing more can contact the Family Placement Teams direct on; Barrow (01229) 894 862 Kendal (01539) 773312 Or freephone 0800 169 3912