H & F Council is holding an open day for potential foster carers at Hammersmith Town Hall this Wednesday, January 11 from 10am till noon, with a presentation at 10.30am.

There is also a second open day on February 8, from 6pm till 8pm at Hammersmith Town Hall, with a presentation starting at 6.30pm.

At least 20 new carers are needed every year in our borough to make sure children in the council’s care can be looked after in a loving family environment. Since April 2010, more than 400 people have contacted the council about becoming a carer, but H&F says it still needs more people to step forward.

Carers come from a variety of backgrounds and all walks of life. They must be over 23 but can be single, in a couple, live in or out of the borough, and be of any race or sexual orientation.

Councillor Helen Binmore, cabinet member for children’s services, says: "I have met many foster carers in the last few years, and they are all wonderful, caring and inspirational people.

"We are so lucky to have them but there are definitely lots more people out there who could do something incredible by becoming a foster carer. We need them to come forward and offer children a safe and loving home, to make a real difference and positive impact on their lives."

As well as coming along to one of the open days to speak to carers, social workers and former foster children, potential carers can visit the council's fostering pages , email: fostering@lbhf.gov.uk or call Freephone 0800 169 3497.

 

January 9, 2012