Blackpool Council celebrates Foster Care Fortnight
Blackpool Council is proud to be supporting Foster Care Fortnight, a national campaign that aims to raise the profile of fostering.
Published by Blackpool Fostering on
Running from 15-28 May, Foster Care Fortnight is organised by the charity, The Fostering Network, and is designed to shine a light on the many ways people across the fostering community support each other.
The fortnight of activity helps to highlight the need for more foster carers and at Blackpool Council, we’re using the opportunity to tackle fostering myths.
Fostering statistics
Every 20 minutes another child comes into care needing a foster family. The majority of these children are placed in care due to abuse or neglect.
The Fostering Network estimates 8,000 new foster carers are needed across the UK this year alone.
In Blackpool, there is a real need for more foster carers which is why we’re asking individuals and families to come forward to find out more about fostering.
Myth-busting
There are some common myths about fostering, which may prevent eligible people from exploring the idea of fostering.
The top five most common questions are:
- I’m single, can I still foster?
You can foster if you’re single, living together, divorced, or separated, married, in a stable relationship or part of the LGBTQ+ community. What you will need is a committed support network.
- Can I foster if I don’t own my home?
As long as you’re financially secure, it doesn’t matter whether you own or rent your home. If you’re renting though, you will need to ask your landlord for permission before you foster.
- I have a disability or health condition, can I foster?
Yes, as long as your disability or medical condition is stable and does not affect your ability to care for a child. You must not put your own health at risk.
- I don’t have children of my home – can I foster?
We welcome applications from single people and couples who do not have children, as well as those who do. You must, however, have had some experience of caring for or working with other people’s children.
- Can I work and foster?
Yes, of course you can! We would work with you on the type of fostering you can offer and ensure careful matching with the right child.
People interested in becoming a foster carer must have a spare bedroom and be at least 21 years of age. Applications are also welcome from those whose children have since left home and people in retirement.
Support and training
Our foster carers benefit from a comprehensive package of support including:
- Ongoing training
- Enhanced generous allowances
- Regular support groups
- Peer mentors for new carers
- Fostering forum meetings
- Out of hours support and advice line
- Dedicated supervising social worker
Foster Carer qualities
Diane Smith has been fostering with us for around 19 years. She is currently looking after two siblings, as well as a 12-year-old and a 17-year-old.
When asked what advice Diane would give to someone thinking of fostering, she said: “As long as you have got commitment, kindness, openness and can always be there for them then go for it.
“Do all the training that you can and think about the adaptability of different cultures and different backgrounds.
“I do a lot reading and studying and put all this into practice. A lot of it is how you speak to the child as words have the power to change a life.”
If you have what it takes to be a foster carer or know someone who might be suitable then please get in touch.