Information sessions for potential foster carers in Exeter and Barnstaple

A series of information sessions for anyone interested in fostering are planned for next month, as Devon County Council continues its drive to recruit carers.

The Council is hosting a mixture of information events and stalls in a bid to encourage more people to consider becoming foster families and give those interested the chance to find out whether fostering would be suitable for them.

Devon has over 700 children in care, and just over 300 fostering households. However many current foster carers are approaching retirement age so the County Council needs to recruit new carers.

The children and young people needing foster care come from all sorts of backgrounds, and are unable to live with their own families for various reasons. The County Council is looking for a wide variety of carers to meet their differing needs whether it is for a short time whilst we help their family to resolve their problems or giving them a permanent home until they reach independence.

There are a number of different types of fostering, from emergency, respite care, temporary and long-term fostering, to specialist schemes helping those with challenging behaviour or looking after young people on remand. All carers are paid an allowance.

Anyone can be considered as long as they are over 21 and have a spare bedroom. There is no requirement to be married, be wealthy or already have children. Foster carers are fully supported through a social worker, regular support groups and excellent training.

Information sessions (7pm to 9pm)

Informal sessions where interested people can talk to social workers and foster carers:

Tuesday 4 June at  Kenn Centre, Exeter Road, Kennford, Exeter EX6 7UE

Thursday 6 June at The Cedars Inn, Bickington Road, Sticklepath, Barnstaple, EX31 2HE

For more information visit www.devon.gov.uk/fostering  

For more information about the events, or to register an interest please email foster@devon.gov.uk or call 0845 155 1013.