Think fostering could be for you?

FOSTERING Fortnight is underway and Carmarthenshire County Council’s Fostering Recruitment Team is out in force at various locations across the county up until Thursday, May 22, between 10am till 2pm.

On Thursday, May 15, the team will set up stall at The Co-Op, Cross Hands; on Friday, May 16, they will visit Llandeilo market; on Wednesday, May 21, they will visit Carmarthen market, and their final stop will be on Thursday, May 22, when they will visit Tesco in Llanelli.

The Fostering Fortnight campaign is a national event to raise awareness of the opportunities available within the foster care services.

Here in Carmarthenshire there is particular need for children aged 10 and over, although there are opportunities in other areas, including within the local authority’s parent and baby scheme.

Fostering Recruitment Team Manager, Jackie Sloane, said: “Many people have pre-conceived ideas about fostering – but these days you don’t have to be married or have children of your own to be able to foster.

“There is no fixed set of qualifications for the ideal foster family – all we ask is for people to provide a loving and stable environment, and we will provide the necessary support and training.”

The council provides a full support service to those who express an interest in foster caring, right the way through from assessment, training and ultimately placement.

Executive Board Member for Children’s Services Cllr Keith Davies said:”If you are considering becoming a foster carer, the road shows are a great place to start in gathering sound advice and information on what fostering entails and the type of children who need fostering.”

Anyone who wants to find out more about fostering can call 0800 0933 699 or email fostering@carmarthenshire.gov.uk. Alternatively, visit www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk