You can make a difference by becoming a foster carer

Foster Care Associates (FCA), which has an regional office on Belmont Road in Belfast, has launched a recruitment campaign for the New Year called ‘what are you waiting for?’

Jan Rees OBE, co-founder of Foster Care Associates, said: “We’re 100% committed to changing the lives of children and young people across Northern Ireland, and our foster carers are at the heart of everything we do, but 
we need more. No matter what age you are, whether you 
apply as a single person or 
a couple, or have your own birth children, as long as 
you have a spare room and are able to nurture and support, you could become a foster carer.

“FCA will provide all the support and training needed in a highly structured and tailored package for both the carer and the young person in care – all underpinned by our Team Parenting™ model of support.”

A fostered child remains the legal responsibility of a trust and/or their birth parents. This ensures that children who cannot be with their parents or other relatives, for whatever reason, can be cared for in a family situation.

FCA are currently wanting to hear from potential foster carers. They could be caring for young people with behavioural problems or teenage mothers who wish to be cared for with their own children.

Jan Rees, OBE continues: “Foster care is not without its challenges, which is why the support services provided by a fostering agency like FCA is so integral to carers, however I would also describe it as the best job in the world.

“Throughout our 13 years of caring for children and young people in need in Northern Ireland we have never lost sight of what made us begin our journey – we call it care without compromise.”

FCA Northern Ireland will be holding a foster care information event at the Ramada Da Vinci Hotel, Culmore Road, Londonderry, on Wednesday, January 27 between 7pm and 8.30pm. Anyone interested in finding more about becoming a foster carer can drop-in to speak to the team.

For more information on becoming a foster carer with FCA call 0800 022 4012 and speak to the FCA Recruitment Team, or enquire online at www.thefca.co.uk and to also find out about recruitment events in the area. Further information on events can be found on FCA Northern Ireland’s Facebook page – www.facebook.com/thefcanorthernireland.