AT least 10 foster carers are urgently needed for the Redlands area.
Andrew Phillips, UnitingCare community foster and kinship care service coordinator, said the Redlands and surrounding areas had a relatively high number of children in need of support.
“Foster care remains Queensland’s primary response to supporting the needs of our most vulnerable children,’’ Mr Phillips said.
“Without well supported, quality foster carers, our state’s abused and neglected children have nowhere to go.’’
Mr Phillips said UnitingCare provided substantial support for foster carers.
“We provide information sessions for anyone interested in becoming a foster carer and we offer ongoing support and training to our foster carers to ensure children receive the safe, nurturing environment they need,’’ Mr Phillips said.
“This includes visiting carers at their home each month when children are staying with them, keeping in touch regularly by phone and email, as well as offering an after-hours phone support line.
“We help carers provide stable and long-term homes, where each young person can feel a true sense of belonging.”
Mr Phillips said UnitingCare Community supported foster carers from a diverse range of cultural, professional and family backgrounds.
“We understand that carers are opening up their homes and lives to help others and that their capacity to do this may vary.
“Some carers may be able to offer an ongoing home to a young person, where others may be able to help out for shorter periods or just provide care occasionally, such as on weekends, or provide shorter term emergency options for young people in need,’’ he said.
“Our team is passionate about responding to the needs of vulnerable young people.”
Mr Phillips said foster carers gave kids the opportunity for change, growth and a hopeful future.
“Carers say that they get a real buzz out of seeing a young person learn new skills, make new friends and experience new things,’’ he said.
“The rewards for carers can be unpredictable and surprising.”
The UnitingCare Community Foster and Kinship Care program is funded by the Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services Department.
If you would like more information phone 1300 554 240 or visitwww.uccommunity.org.au/foster
