Fostering – give the best gift this Christmas

Ten new fostering families have helped provide a loving and stable home life for children in Darlington this year.

Our fostering team has provided ongoing support and help to the new foster families and is now looking for more people willing to give the greatest gift this Christmas.

Most of the children needing a home this year have been teenagers and separated children (unaccompanied asylum-seeking children) but there have been occasions where younger children have also needed a home.

New foster families are always needed to provide a home for children in need. Foster carers can be single, in a relationship, of any age and from any background. All that you need is a spare room in your home and be willing to offer a supportive, loving home to a child or young person.

Our foster carers receive financial and emotional support to ensure they can offer the best possible home life for the child in their care. This includes a buddy system where new foster carers have the support of a current foster carer; a supervising social worker who provides monthly support; online and in person training; regular coffee mornings and support groups. You can find out more about fostering and how to apply on our website.

Nick Wallis, cabinet member for children and young people, said: “I am so grateful to all our foster carers who welcome children and young people into their homes. I am delighted that ten new families have joined us this year so even more children can be given the best start in life.

“Fostering is a really rewarding experience and we support our foster families every step of the way. I urge anyone who has ever thought about fostering to get in touch and give the greatest gift this Christmas – a loving, caring home.”