Liverpool City Council’s fostering service has received a record number of enquiries so far this year – believed to be as a result of changes in people’s circumstances due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
More than 100 expressions of interest in looking after a child were received in January alone.
It is thought it is as a result of more people working flexibly, such as from home, which means they are now able to consider supporting a young person.
More foster carers are always needed as there are over 1,500 young people in care in the city.
The council holds regular online webinars, during which people can find out more first-hand from foster carers.
Chris and Amanda, who became foster carers last year, are speaking at the next event on Thursday 18 Februaryat 6pm, which people can sign up to at https://fostering.liverpool.gov.uk/events/february-webinar/.
The couple, who are in their early 30’s and both work full-time, wanted to be involved in helping children who have been through trauma, helping get their lives back on track.
They became foster carers for Liverpool in March 2020, initially part-time to fit around work commitments, and care for a 14-year-old boy.
Thanks to an increase in flexible working due to the pandemic, the young person has been able to stay with them and they hope he will remain with them long-term.
Chris and Amanda said:
“We were unsure at first if we could foster, because of working full-time and even our age. We were aware it was a bit unusual, but we were really well supported through the application process and now we tell people it’s the most rewarding thing we’ve done. It’s definitely worth looking into”.
Councillor Lynnie Hinnigan, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said:
“If you’ve ever thought about fostering and would like to find out more, we would urge you to get in touch.
“Fostering makes such a difference to children and young people by providing them with a loving home and stability at a time when they need it the most.
“We support carers throughout every step of their fostering journey, preparing them for what is involved and offering a full range of support, allowances and ongoing training.”
Stuart Williams, Service Manager for the Fostering Service, said:
“We are encouraged that more people are considering fostering as a rewarding future, and many may have been able to come forwards because of the increased flexibility or changes in work due to the pandemic.
“There are many different types of fostering and we’d encourage anyone who’s interested to get in touch and explore the possibilities.”
Liverpool City Council fostering service is 100 per cent not-for-profit. The more foster carers that come forward, the more children can be supported in their local community.
A wide range of support and benefits are provided including:
· A dedicated fostering social worker
· Access to support services
· Financial support and allowances
· Ongoing training
· Free council tax
· Lifestyles fitness membership for the family
· Access to a holiday home
To find out more about fostering with Liverpool, please click here or call 0151 515 0000.
