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Fostering in the North East
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Fostering Disabled Children in the North East
August 02, 2011
Prior to becoming a foster carer Donna (42) was initially a sick children’s nurse and moved on to become a health visitor while her husband Jonathan (37) was a long distance lorry driver. The couple now live in Redcar, Cleveland with their 13 year old daughter Kennedy and two lively dogs.For Donna and Jonathan, their ambition was to look after children and young people who need the security of a stable and happy home. Having taken up fostering five years ago, they have since fostered over 50 children from many different backgrounds.
Becoming foster carers of disabled children
Since fostering with Foster Care Associates (FCA), the family home has been buzzing with positive energy and life which is something Donna would never give up.
“We wanted to do more with our lives and while I really enjoyed being a health visitor, I felt there was so much more I could give if only I could allow the children I was visiting to come and live in our home,” explains Donna.
“When we initially began fostering with FCA we didn’t really know what to expect but with the support and training offered we quickly realised that we could make a positive difference.
“Having been a sick children’s nurse, I was acutely aware of the understanding and skills I had to look after children with disabilities. The challenge of caring for a disabled child can be demanding but we have derived so much pleasure through this experience.
“These children need 24 hour care and that is exactly what we do. Their welfare is a priority and this can be anything from building social skills and confidence to meeting their personal care needs.”
Preparing the home for fostering
Converting their family home was the first step Donna and Jonathan were encouraged to undertake with guidance from FCA. The changes were simple but have made a huge difference to the care they can now deliver which often includes moving wheelchairs, facilitating space for special equipment or lifting children.
Ongoing foster carer training is provided by FCA and a 24 hour foster carer support service ensures FCA professionals are just a phone call away to deal with whatever problem may arise. Foster carers might also be expected to take on responsibility for the administration of drugs, keeping them in a safe place and ensuring up to date records are maintained on a daily basis.
As well as fostering children with physical needs, the family have cared for many young people with learning difficulties and behavioural and emotional problems.
“We have looked after children with learning difficulties which can range from dyslexia right through to autism and also children with mental health problems such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia,” says Donna. “It’s all about understanding each child and recognising their individual needs. We pull together as a team and it seems to work really well.”
Are you thinking of fostering in the North East?
For more information about fostering in the North East, call FCA today on 0800 023 4561 or enquire online. It could be the decision that changes your life as well as the lives of children and young people in your local area.
