Call for foster carers to help children flourish

Islanders are being urged to open up their homes for foster children and "make a real difference" by provding "stability and care".

Fostering offers children and young people a home when they are unable to live with their birth family.

The Family Placement Service is putting on two drop in sessions at Beau Sejour for people to get more information about how they can get involved.

Cath Black, team manager, said: "Full training and ongoing support are provided every step of the way, so you'll never be alone on the journey."

There are different types of foster care, sometimes children only stay with a foster family for a few days or under short-term break arrangements.

In other circumstances children will live with their foster family full-time for their entire childhood, sometimes longer.

The service said each child's circumstances and needs are different, but every child had the right to have their needs met within their own community, together with their siblings if they have any.

One of the service's foster carers said: "Being a foster carer holds the possibility for the most rewarding, joyous experience of a lifetime. You really can make a difference."

The drop in sessions at Beau Sejour will be held at 18:30 GMT on Wednesday 21 and Monday 26 January.

Black said: "If you've ever considered fostering, now is the time to find out more.

"You can attend a drop-in session or get in touch with us directly."

The service said the team could be contacted via email [email protected], phone 01481 223182 or by visiting guernseyfostercare.com.

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