Foster Care Fortnight

Foster Care Fortnight takes place from May 10th-23rd and West Sussex County Council is using the national event to celebrate its fantastic carers and promote the real need for more foster carers in West Sussex as Stephen Pickthall explains

The theme is #WhyWeCare and the Council will be promoting the incredible role its foster carers play in supporting children in our care, a role which is needed more than ever after 12 months of the pandemic.

Since the start of the pandemic, more and more people have been finding out about becoming a foster carer with West Sussex County Council. However, while enquiries have gone up, sadly the number of children who have come into care in West Sussex has risen too.

Clare Spencer, Service Lead for Fostering at West Sussex County Council said, “It’s really positive that more people are finding out about fostering as a result of the pandemic. However, the reality is more children are also coming into our care. The need for people to foster in West Sussex has never been higher and we would love to hear from people who want to make a difference.”

It usually takes between 4-6 months to go through the training and become

THE CHANCE TO CHANGE A LIFE

an approved foster carer. In the last year 23 households became approved carers with West Sussex County Council and are now supporting a child or children.

Events of the last year have seen people reassess their situations, leading to many seeking something more rewarding in life. People looking for an alternative career are realising that fostering can be a great option which can fit around family life and work, and make a real difference to a child’s life.

Mark and Scott began fostering twins just before the first lockdown began. Scott said, “We’re really loving it and although it’s a total lifestyle change for us both, it has been brilliant.” Mark added, “We foster with West Sussex County Council because we know we’re part of a big network of other foster carers and there’s professional help if its ever needed.”

An enhanced allowance package for foster carers who support two or more children

West Sussex County Council provide full training and ongoing support and guidance to all its carers.

The Council provide competitive allowances and in April, introduced an enhanced allowance package for foster carers who support two or more children. You don’t have to be in a couple to become a foster carer and the council welcomes enquiries from people from diverse backgrounds and life experiences. l If you are interested in fostering, you can speak to the friendly recruitment team on 033 022 27775. To find out more, register your interest at www.westsussex.gov.uk/fostering To hear from carers directly about the incredibly rewarding work they do follow @FosterWSCC on Twitter or like the ‘Fostering in West Sussex’ page on Facebook