People in Cornwall asked to give foster homes to children seeking asylum
The council is planning to help 76 this year, a number of whom are under-16
Cornwall Council’s fostering service is looking for people who are interested in becoming foster carers for unaccompanied asylum-seeking children aged under 16.
Unaccompanied children have often experienced trauma and loss and have made enormous sacrifices to reach a place of safety in the UK.
Along with other local authorities, Cornwall Council has a responsibility to provide support and plans to meet the needs of up to 76 unaccompanied children and young people this year.
A number of them will be under the age of 16 and will therefore require foster homes.
The council welcomes expressions of interest from people from all backgrounds (you can be married, single or in a partnership, from any ethnic group and culture) who would like to help.
Can I be a foster carer for these children?
Cornwall Council says to provide a foster home for asylum-seeking children you will need:
• A spare room available (and permission from your landlord or housing provider if living in rented accommodation)
• The ability to provide loving support to a child or young person
• Preferably, relevant experience or skills in providing guidance for young people (although previous experience is not essential)
• Willingness to undergo the fostering assessment process
Financial allowances, expert advice, support and training will be provided to people who become foster carers, to make sure that this is a positive experience for you and for the child.
Councillor Barbara Ellenbroek, portfolio holder for children and families, said: "Cornwall Council is working proactively to ensure that we can offer safe homes to children and young people who arrive unaccompanied, to welcome them to Cornwall and help them recover from their experiences and thrive.
"As with any child, these young people need safe and supportive environments to help them prepare to lead independent lives and make a positive contribution to our communities"
To find out more about how you can support these children email fostering@cornwall.gov.uk or call 01872 323638.