CUMBRIA Fostering is asking those who can offer a child a loving and safe home in the county to come forward and join our foster care community. 

The call out comes as Cumbria Fostering marks the annual Foster Care Fortnight (which runs until Sunday 28 May 2023), which aims to raise the profile of fostering and show how foster care transforms lives. 

Foster carer Gillian Clark said: “If you are interested look into it. Chat to other foster carers and make enquiries and go for it – it’s the best thing I’ve ever done."

Fostering, for many children, can be their first positive experience of family life, and our carers do an incredible job of providing them with the stability and security they need.  

What is fostering? 

Fostering is a way of providing a stable family life for children and young people, who are unable to live with their parents. This allows children the chance to thrive in a safe, secure, loving and caring home environment with foster carers. By deciding to become a foster carer you are making a challenging, yet very rewarding decision. 

Can I foster? 

Potentially, anyone over the age of 21 can foster, providing they have at least one spare bedroom and have the time and commitment to nurture a child. You don’t need to own your own home. You don’t need to be employed. You don’t need to have children of your own. You can be married, single or in a same sex relationship. 

What is on offer? 

As a foster carer with Cumbria Fostering, you will become a valued member of our team, working with and caring for local children to offer them the best support and care to make a difference to their life. We can offer: 

Full training and ongoing support from an experienced team of qualified social workers, family support workers and therapists. 

Peer support from other foster carers. 

Competitive payments of up to £332 per week, per child for newly approved carers.  

Where can I find out more? 

Attend an upcoming events this week and speak to the friendly team and hear from  foster carers about their experiences: 

Tuesday 23 May - Workington drop-in session at Costa Coffee in Washington Square from 12pm to 1pm. 

Wednesday 24 May -Join our virtual information drop in on Zoom from 7pm to 8pm.   

Thursday 25 May - Fostering Information Stand in the atrium at Cumberland Infirmary, Carlisle from 12 to 2pm.  

Find out more by visiting cumbriafostering.org.uk or speak to us today on 0300 013 2065