Urgent Need for Foster Carers from Black and Ethnic Communities
There is an urgent need to find foster carers for Bexley young people from black and ethnic communities, according to the Children's Placements Service.
Following a successful recruitment drive, the number of Bexley carers from black and ethnic communities is increasing, but more are needed.
Deputy Leader of Bexley Council and Cabinet Member for Children's Services, Cllr Teresa O'Neill says; "Foster carers play a vital role in helping young people to achieve better outcomes and brighter futures for themselves."
"The young people we place with carers need consistency, stability and someone who can manage and support them through difficult periods. Anyone, married or single can apply, and there are many different ways to get involved - it's even possible to foster on a part-time basis. We provide all the training and support needed to become a first class foster carer."
Bexley Council Head of Children's Resources and Commissioning Melanie Newell explains: "Children benefit from living with families who share their own culture, language, religion and food. We have an increasing number of black children in Bexley who need someone to care for them for a few days, months or longer."
"Ethnicity is very important to black and Asian children and they need support to appreciate their cultural heritage, to have a sense of pride and achievement and to face racism and discrimination. There is a real need for more black people to become carers in Bexley."
There are currently 205 children being looked after by Bexley Council and most of them live with foster carers. Kathleen Lashley one of Bexley's valued Black British-Caribbean carers says; "Fostering is a rewarding experience. Being able to offer a little love, understanding, being a good listener, offering guidance, supporting children and young people emotionally and just being there for them, can help build their self confidence and make a significant contribution to their lives."
For two weeks beginning 14 May, fostering services all over the UK will be celebrating events to raise awareness about fostering as part of the UK-wide Foster Care Fortnight, co-ordinated by Fostering Network.
To find out more about fostering call Freephone 0800 783 7699 or log on to www.bexley.gov.uk.
