The City of Wolverhampton Council is hitting the road as it looks to recruit more foster carers. It is rolling out its new Fostering for Wolverhampton bus for a roadshow calling into different parts of the city later this month. Members of the Fostering for Wolverhampton team, along with foster care champions, will be on board encouraging people to consider taking up this life-changing role.
Foster families are already giving hundreds of local children the best possible future by offering them a supportive environment in a loving home, but more are urgently needed – and the council is keen to hear from individuals and couples who want to make a difference.
People can find out more and have an informal chat by climbing aboard the Fostering for Wolverhampton bus at Queen Square, Wolverhampton, on Monday 25 January, Asda, Wolverhampton on Tuesday 26 January, WV Active Bilston-Bert Williams, Nettlefolds Way, on Wednesday 27 January, Bentley Bridge retail park, Wednesfield, on Thursday 28 January and Waitrose, Wolverhampton, on Friday 29 January. The bus will be at each location from 10am-3pm.
Councillor Val Gibson, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: “Fostering can truly be a life-changing experience, both for the foster carer and the young person they look after.
“We are very lucky to have so many dedicated foster carers in Wolverhampton – including three couples who have recently been honoured for their long-service with MBEs from the Queen – but we are always on the lookout for more and so would love to hear from people who are considering fostering.
“We offer training and support to new foster carers, and they won’t be left out of pocket as they receive a tax-free allowance to cover the cost of bringing up the child.”
Foster carers can be sole carers, married or in a relationship – and they won't be on their own as help and support is available 24 hours a day. They will receive six months' “buddy support” from experienced foster carers who are there to befriend and guide them through the system.
Supervising social workers provide intensive support for the first six weeks of a placement and then every month thereafter, while foster carers can get help through a peer support network. Placements can be anything from a few days to a number of years, with some foster carers going on to adopt the children they look after.
Anyone who cannot catch the bus at one of the roadshows can also find out more about becoming a foster carer by visiting www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/fostering or by calling 01902 551133.
