Bath & North East Somerset Council is thanking residents for a large increase in enquiries about becoming a foster carer during the coronavirus pandemic but is underlining that more support is still needed for vulnerable children.
In April and May the council received more than five times as many enquiries about fostering compared to the same period in 2019, after calling for more carers to come forward.
There are currently 10 households in the district being assessed to become foster carers as a result of residents making contact, which is also a significant increase on the previous year.
The council is thanking the community for its response but is highlighting that more carers are still needed to give children a stable family environment.
Councillor Kevin Guy, cabinet member for Children’s Services, said, “It’s a real testament to the strong community spirit in Bath and North East Somerset that people have answered our call for more foster carers. Thank you to all the residents who got in touch or helped spread the word.
“However, we still need more potential foster carers to come forward as there are still children waiting to be placed in a safe and secure family home. Please get in touch with us if you think you could make a difference to a child’s future.”
Foster carers with the council receive excellent support, advice and training, including support from a psychologist and family support workers. They will receive a 25% discount on council tax, while paid holidays and respite are available during long-term placements. Telephone support is currently available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Carers need to be aged over 21 with at least one spare bedroom in their house, with the right to live and work in the UK and no relevant police record relating to child offences. They must have enough time for the council’s assessment, training and to look after a child.
Applications to become a foster carer can be made by calling the council’s fostering team on 01225 394949 or visit the website at fostering.bathnes.gov.uk. There is a short quiz for people to complete if they wish to register their interest online.
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