Minister Supports Work Of Fostering Agency | FCA News

March 05, 2008

Minister for Children and Early Years, Adam Ingram supported the provision of fostering services in Scotland this week (March 4) when he attended the launch of an expansion programme by Foster Care Associates (FCA).

Part of its fifth anniversary celebrations, FCA Scotland celebrated the launch of its latest office opening on Buchanan Business Park, Stepps, Glasgow with attendance from the Minister who performed an official opening ceremony.

Marking the event, Adam Ingram praised the work of FCA and the quality of fostering service it continues to deliver across Scotland.

Minister for Children and Early Years, Adam Ingram said: “We want every child in Scotland to grow up in a caring, supportive environment and we recognise the vital role foster carers play in some of our most vulnerable young people’s lives.

“That’s why we recently announced a national strategy which will see central and local government working together to give more help – including better financial support – to foster and kinship carers, as well as the children they look after.

“The training and development of carers is crucial if we are to drive forward with this child-centred approach and that’s why organisations like Foster Care Associates are so important.”

The FCA event welcomed representatives from local authorities, professionals from across the fostering sector as well as children and their foster families. An exhibition of artwork and poetry created by looked after children and young people, provided an impressive centrepiece to showcase the creative talents of the youngsters.

A special presentation to the Minister was made by Luana McAtear and FCA also presented five year long service awards to its foster carers, in recognition of their contribution to fostering.

FCA Scotland operational director, Cheryl Moran said: “Today marks a milestone in the history of FCA. The launch of our new offices in Stepps will enable FCA to meet increased demand for quality foster care provision across north and south Lanarkshire and the central belt.

“Ultimately, we aim to shape a better future for the children and young people who find themselves in the care system. It is our role to ensure their individual needs are met and that they have the confidence and optimism to look forward to a bright future where they can achieve their maximum social and academic potential.”

“Achieving positive outcomes for all the children in our care and supporting our foster families is what it is all about but in order to do this we must continue to work in close partnership with Government officials and representatives to ensure the needs of looked after children remain high on the agenda. To this end we must continue to recruit, train and retain foster carers and ensure they are properly supported to carry out the fostering task.”

With the national shortage of foster carers around 1700* in Scotland, FCA is continually seeking to attract foster carers who believe they have what it takes to commit to this challenging yet hugely rewarding role. Anyone who is interested in finding out more about fostering should call FCA Scotland on telephone 0141 3314 120 or visit the website www.iwanttofoster.com