Appeal for new foster carers to look after older Peterborough children

As part of this year’s Foster Care Fortnight, Peterborough City Council is facing its toughest recruitment challenge to date as it aims to recruit more foster carers who have the skills and experience to look after older children and teenagers.

There are around 150 registered fostering households in Peterborough that care for around 300 children every day.

Whilst many carers are approved for babies and toddlers, there are fewer carers available to look after children aged ten or above, despite the fact six out of ten young people fall into this category.

Foster Care Fortnight 2016 takes place from Monday 16 May to Sunday 29 May, and a number of events are taking place in the city to encourage more people to come forward and become foster carers.

Simon Green, head of fostering and adoption service for Peterborough City Council, said: “We have successfully recruited more than 60 new fostering households in the past two years which is fantastic. However, we still need more people to be able to provide a home for every child that needs one, in particular for older children.

“Households where children have grown up or moved out are ideally suited to foster older age groups, giving young people a bedroom of their own and one-to-one attention which will help them to thrive. Applicants also need to be available during the day as fostering can involve regular meetings about the child which are difficult to attend alongside full-time employment.

“Our foster carers are not left to go it alone and are generously supported financially. We are looking for supportive households who can provide stability for these young people. If you are interested in becoming a foster carer please take some time to find out more and we’ll be with you every step of the way.”

The council’s fostering team will be at Queensgate Shopping Centre on Saturday and Sunday (21 and 22 May 2016) between 10am and 4pm.

People can also meet other prospective carers at a fostering information evening at Peterborough Town Hall, Bridge Street on 19 or 26 May between 6pm and 8pm. Information evenings are also planned for 2 and 9 June.

Alternatively, you can request an information pack via www.peterboroughfostering.co.uk or give us a call on 01733 317427.