Foster 'aunts and uncles' sought for care scheme
Now FosterPeople are being asked to consider becoming foster "aunts and uncles" and look after children for short periods.
Durham County Council is looking for new recruits who can carry out more flexible fostering care through it's Weekender Programme.
The scheme will allow people spend one weekend a month with a child and take part in activities together.
Cathy Hunt, Durham County Council's cabinet member for children and young people's services, said the Weekender Programme would allow those unsure if they could take on full-time care to get involved in fostering.
"The scheme does not replace full-time foster care and the valuable benefits and stability that come with it," she said.
"The Weekender Programme is designed to build on the foundations of full-time foster caring, allowing the weekenders to play a grandparent, aunt or uncle role and give the child a wider sense of family."
It is hoped the scheme will allow children to feel connected to trusted adults who can offer them emotional support, consistency and a sense of belonging.
The scheme has been designed with social work professionals, foster carers and those with experience of the care system.
Weekender foster carers will be matched with a child and will receive training to ensure they have the skills they need to support them.
Sara Fernandez, chief executive of Now Foster, said: "Many people want to support children but aren't sure where to begin.
"Weekenders makes that possible – it's about connection and care, a really good way to step into fostering."
