Fostering - A Rewarding Role

May 08, 2009

"During this year's Foster Care Fortnight (May 11-24) why not consider the role of fostering as a long term option," urges Foster Care Associates (FCA), the UK's leading independent foster care agency.

With the national shortage of foster carers currently 10,000*, FCA is encouraging job seekers to consider the benefits of taking up the challenging yet hugely rewarding role of fostering.

"For anyone who is looking for a rewarding career, fostering is certainly a worthwhile option to consider providing you are truly committed to the task, " says FCA carer recruitment manager, Marie-Louise Allred.

"Very often our foster carers find they have a number of transferrable skills from previous job experiences. Once they make that initial enquiry to find out about fostering, they are often surprised how suited they are to the role.

"We urge anyone who is looking for a new job to think carefully about fostering. Yes, it can be challenging but with the right support and training it can be extremely rewarding."

FCA provides each of its foster carers with a 24 hour service which draws on expertise from a number of professionals including social workers, therapists, education specialists and support workers. Ongoing training, regular forums and carer groups are all part of the overall support package.

Marie-Louise adds: "What we are looking for are individuals who genuinely want to make a positive difference to the lives of children and young people, who through no fault of their own find themselves living in the UK care system."

FCA believes that every child deserves the right to live in a stable and secure home environment where they are given the opportunity to flourish and enjoy happy lives in their local communities. To do this, FCA is committed to delivering quality 'care in a family setting' for every child or young person living with its foster families.

FCA welcomes applications from single people, married, co-habiting and same sex couples. To find out more about fostering call FCA freephone on 0800 085 2225.

*reference: The Fostering Network 2009