The Council are pushing to have more foster carers available in the city. The council have two reasons for encouraging fostering:- one is that it is better for the child, and secondly it is better for the council finances. The foster carer takes the child into their home and looks after them while preparing them for a possible return to their family. Although foster carers do get paid, it is acknowledged by the Capital Coalition that this is in fact the better and cheaper option.
Councillor Paul Godzik, Education Convener, said:- “We want to give every child the best possible start in life. In Edinburgh we placed more than 300 children in foster care last year and need to increase this year on year. We’re determined to provide more support to our foster carers, and the Capital Coalition have outlined proposals to do just that.”
“Fostering is a truly a rewarding and exceptionally important role. I would encourage everyone with an interest to come along to one of our events to speak to those in the know and get those answers they need to help them make a decision.”
This Thursday evening the council are running another information session from 5-7pm at the City of Edinburgh Council HQ, 4 East Market Street EH8 8BG (view on a map)
Chief Executive, Sue Bruce, will be on hand along with some council officers to tell you what it might mean for you.
There is more information on the dedicated council website here and here is the council video featuring Grant Stott and some of the foster carers who have looked after children in need of care for all different reasons.
There will also be further events from next month:-
- Thursday 14 March 2013 (day care recruitment)
- Thursday 18 April 2013
- Thursday 13 June 2013
The Council have issued an information pack which we reproduce for you here:-
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