Becoming a foster carer in Lincolnshire could see you transform a young life for the better
More long-term foster carers are desperately needed to look after some of the county’s most vulnerable children.
Cllr Mrs Patricia Bradwell OBE, executive member for children’s services, said: “Being a foster carer can be a challenging role, but it’s also hugely rewarding. Long-term foster carers often speak of a sense of pride in seeing the child develop and flourish.
“And, in terms of practicalities, there is a fostering allowance as well as good support and training for those who provide a home for a child in need. So if you’d like to make a real difference to a child’s life, please get in touch.”
Long-term fostering requires a high level of commitment as carers will need to provide a stable home life for a child until they reach adulthood and beyond.
Many of the children who are currently waiting for a long-term foster family are part of a sibling group who need to be placed together with their brothers and sisters. It is recognised that remaining with their siblings can help a child settle into a new family.
Each application to foster is considered on an individual basis and you can be a foster carer regardless of your marital status, sexuality, employment status, ethnicity or religion. However, you do need to have a spare bedroom for a child or young person to use.
If you feel that you could offer a home to a child or young person, apply to foster today at www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/fostering or call our friendly team on 01522 554114.
New children’s homes
The council has earmarked £1.5m for the creation of two new children’s homes over the next three years.
The new homes will provide high-quality facilities for children in care and will mean that fewer children will need to be placed outside the county.
“We’re seeing a rising number of young people needing care, so it’s important we have enough spaces here in Lincolnshire,” Cllr Bradwell added. “The new homes will ensure these children remain close to their local community and existing support networks, leading to better outcomes.”
It is hoped that the first new home will open in Lincoln towards the end of the year, with the second following later in East Lindsey.