Peterborough foster parents proud to make difference amid council pledge
There are 435 children and young people currently in care in the city
A foster parent in Peterborough has said fostering can make a huge difference to children's lives.
Peterborough City Council is urging people to consider becoming a foster parent to one of the 435 children and young people currently in care in the city.
'Homely environment can really help'
“We wanted to become foster carers to make a positive difference to a young person’s life, and we can do just that every day," said Joanna Taylor.
She and her husband have been fostering for the past five months and is seeing the impact they are making.
"It’s wonderful to see them blossom, knowing that we are helping them overcome daily challenges," she added.
"It's not the first home all children deserve, but it's the next best thing, I would say.
"Having that stability and a homely environment can really help."
We are helping them overcome daily challenges
Peterborough City Council says it provides foster carers with the support they need to make a difference to a child or young person’s life.
It includes a dedicated social worker, mentorship, buddying, and a host of other support services.
The council said it aims to create a fostering community, a network where foster carers can seek assistance and guidance to help them make a positive difference for Peterborough’s children and young people.
Foster carers play 'extraordinary role in shaping lives'
"Foster carers play an extraordinary role in shaping the lives of young people," Councillor Katy Cole, cabinet member for children's services at Peterborough City Council, said.
"Through their care, patience, and support, they provide the stability and encouragement every child needs to grow, heal, and thrive.
"The influence of a carer doesn't just change a moment it helps shape a young person's future."
“Our aim is for children to have more stability by placing them locally with our own foster carers. We cannot do that unless we can recruit more people."