Finding out more about fostering

West Sussex County Council is holding a year-long recruitment campaign of monthly drop-in sessions for prospective foster carers.

The next session is on Tuesday July 17, from 10am to 4pm, at Bognor Regis Library, London Road, Bognor Regis, PO21 1DE.

The informal drop-in sessions give people a chance to talk to members of the fostering team and ask any questions they have.

Rowena, who lives near Bognor Regis, has been a foster carer for ten years.

She said: “The best thing about being a foster carer is being able to welcome children into your family, giving them opportunities that are fun and helping them experience life.

“It is challenging, but I think that’s a good thing as it keeps you on your toes. It’s so rewarding to see the children develop as they know there is someone who cares and who can support them.

“The county council offers a very good training programme that really helps you understand what it means for the children you are taking on and what the implications are. You get a lot of on-going support. Our Family Placement Social Worker is invaluable – she’s always there for us whenever we need her.”

Cabinet Member for Children and Families Peter Evans said: “Foster carers like Rowena provide security and stability to children when they need it most, allowing them a chance to develop and flourish in a safe, secure environment. Every child who has to come into care has their own emotional needs, history and personal circumstances. The county council strives to match foster carers with their own unique skills and experiences to them.

“We are currently looking for more foster carers in the Bognor Regis area to come forward. Children thrive on familiarity, so our approach means children and young people who need care stay close to their school, friends, people and places they know.

“Being a foster carer is very rewarding and I would urge anyone who has considered becoming a foster carer, or who would like to find out more, to come along to the drop-in session.”

Foster carers receive a comprehensive support package from the Council, including on-going training and financial allowances to meet the needs of the children and young people in their care.

Drop-in sessions are being held throughout the county, and more details on future events can be found at www.westsussex.gov.uk/fostering or by calling 01403 229333.