New campaign aims to encourage more foster carers to step forward in Northumberland

A new campaign encouraging potential foster carers to step forward has been launched in Northumberland.
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Becoming a foster carer is a natural transition for many parents who turn the common occurrence of ‘empty nest syndrome’ into a positive experience by training to care for children and young people.

Northumberland County Council’s foster care team is keen to hear from people who have the time, space and at least one spare bedroom. .

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Cllr Guy Renner Thompson, cabinet member for children’s services, said: “We are doubly proud to launch both our new “We are Family” campaign and the attainment of our Foster Friendly status as an employer.

Cllr Guy Renner-Thompson.Cllr Guy Renner-Thompson.
Cllr Guy Renner-Thompson.

“The new campaign aims to attract more people to offer a stable home to local children and young people on both a short or long term basis. It aims to highlight the support around looked after children, foster carers and their families.”

Northumberland County Council has been recognised as a foster friendly employer by UK charity The Fostering Network’s national scheme. The scheme is designed to help employers recognise and provide additional support for staff looking after children through foster care.

“We want to lead by example, and hope we'll inspire other organisations to join our Fostering Friendly ethos,” said Cllr Renner-Thompson.

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“With the right type of foster care to suit you and the vital support network you join - you could make a real difference to the lives of local children and young people by offering them a stable home. Northumberland offers a guaranteed weekly payment as a steady income for full time foster carers, as well as lots of additional support, resources and training.

“The practical training and application process is designed so you will be well prepared and feel ready for the first child coming to stay with you.

“Please call our team to have a chat about your options, including the possibility of a fast tracked application - we would love to hear from you or see you at a future online event.”

If you have room in your life to make a difference in a child’s life - please call Caroline Matthews on 01670 62 62 62 or email [email protected] or read more at www.northumberland.gov.uk/foster

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