People who are interested in becoming a foster carer are invited to meet the Fostering for Wolverhampton team at Molineux Stadium next week.

 

The event, on Tuesday 13 November from 6.30pm until 8pm, is an opportunity to find out more about this rewarding career, including the support and financial benefits available to people who take it on, and to speak directly to current foster carers about their experiences.

 

Foster families are helping to give hundreds of children in Wolverhampton the best possible start in life by offering them a supportive environment in a loving home.

 

But more foster carers are urgently needed as there are currently dozens of children waiting for a home, and the Fostering for Wolverhampton team are keen to hear from individuals and couples who want to make a difference to a local child.

 

Foster carers can be single, 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 help and guide them, while carers also receive a regular, tax-exempt fee and allowance to cover the cost of bringing up the child. The allowance starts from £383 to £440 per week depending on the child’s age.

 

Councillor Paul Sweet, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: “We are very lucky to have so many dedicated foster carers who combine a desire to help children with a commitment to providing the best possible care, but we have more youngsters who are looking for a home.

 

“Fostering can truly be a life-changing experience, both for foster carers and the young person they care for. We'd love to hear from people who have both a spare room and of course love in their heart to help local children by fostering.”

 

As well as attending Tuesday’s drop-in event, prospective foster carers can find out more by logging on to www.fosteringforwolverhampton.com or calling 01902 551133.