Many children here in Cumbria are waiting for substitute families. To raise awareness about fostering, Cumbria County Council will be enclosing a new campaign leaflet in every council tax bill to all households across Allerdale asking that people take a minute of their time to read the leaflet to see if they could give a home to a teenager or brothers and sisters who desperately want to stay together.
County councillor John Mallinson, cabinet spokesman for care and social services said:
“Local children are in need of carers to ensure they can make the best of life chances. There are currently many Cumbrian children who need a long or short-term placement with a carer or carers who can make them feel that they belong.
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, in certain circumstances, can better meet some children’s needs.
We are looking for ordinary people so when your council tax bill drops through your door next week please take a minute to read the leaflet and ask yourself if you have space in your life for a child in need."
Anyone interested in fostering and wants to know more, please contact Cumbria County Council's family placement teams in Workington on 01900 325356.