Lockdown restrictions easing causes shortage of foster families in Gloucestershire
The county council are speeding up the process to become a foster carer
The easing of lockdown restrictions is affecting the number of foster families coming forward in Gloucestershire.
There are currently 840 children in care in Gloucestershire and the council says it's becoming increasingly challenging to find suitable foster families.
As a result there are concerns that some children may have to wait longer for the right foster home.
The council have now launched an eight-week fast track assessment to encourage more families to come forward.
13-year-old David, whose name has been changed to protect his identity, is currently in a residential children’s home but could move to a local foster family if suitable foster carers can be found for him.
David said: "I want to be in a foster family with other children. I love swimming, being outdoors and I am keen to try any sport or social activity. I like football and am very good at it"
David’s social worker said: "David is very friendly and likes to please people. He is extremely helpful and considerate of others’ feelings.
"He needs someone who is able to look after him, help him to manage his feelings and understand the experiences he has had and how these affect him. David needs a home where he can belong, with people who won’t give up on him."
Councillor Stephen Davies, cabinet member for children’s safeguarding and early years at Gloucestershire County Council said: "We want to make sure that children who come into our care are placed with the right family straight away. This means we need more local people to come forward to become a foster carer.
"Our fast track assessment process means prospective foster carers can be approved more quickly, while maintaining the same rigorous checks and high standards that are needed. If you’ve ever considered fostering please get in touch with our Fostering Service Recruitment Team. You could be making a difference to a child like David within weeks."