New campaign hopes to find foster homes for 23 young people in Devizes
The children and young people will "benefit from a warm home, care and attention"
A new campaign is launching this November to find foster families for 23 children and young people in Devizes.
Wiltshire Council hopes to help people who are thinking about fostering to take the next step.
The local authority already began targeting local areas, such as Trowbridge, over the summer as part of the campaign.
Councillor Laura Mayes said: "We have 23 young people in care in the Devizes area who will benefit from a warm home, care and attention. Our foster carers do an amazing job however we always need more people to step forward and take up this vital role.
"In return, we provide you with the support and training you need and the right payments so you can make this your vocation. Even if people are not ready just now we still want to hear from you so we can give you a clear picture of fostering and how it can make a real difference to a young person's life."
The local authority wants to recruit 100 extra foster carers by Spring 2023.
So far 52 additional fostering families have joined the council since the campaign began in May 2020 and the quest continues to find another 48.
Fostering with a local council means all the money is spent on frontline services.
Moreover, the child is more likely to be able to stay close to their school, friends and family networks.
Who is eligible to become a foster carer?
People who wish to become foster carers need to:
- be over 21 years old
- have a spare bedroom
- have time to care for a child
- and, have a willingness to care and seek to understand young people who have experienced trauma and loss
People who foster with Wiltshire Council are given training and continued support, including weekly payments reflecting their commitment.
Depending on skills and experience, there are different fostering schemes available ranging from £350 to £650 a week.
Ms Mayes also urged anyone interested in fostering to talk with the Kinship and Fostering team, who will be at the Devizes market later this month (4th and 18th November).
"There is absolutely no obligation, just a chance to find out about what fostering with Wiltshire Council can mean for you," she added.