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Fostering and Adoption Jersey are launching a Foster Carers Charter on the 4th October as the first step to recognise and celebrate the work of local foster carers. The Charter, which has been developed by the Foster Carers Association in consultation with Children’s Services, will be launched this week by the Director of Children’s Social Work, Julie Gibney.
The Charter aims to re-enforce recognition from the States of Jersey of the excellent care, support and commitment shown by foster and kinship carers and the invaluable role they play in the lives of Jersey’s looked after children and young people.
Julie Gibney, Director of Children’s Social Work said “The Charter outlines a way of working reciprocally and accountably in the best interests of children, their birth families, their carers and the staff who support the service. It is hoped that all foster carers will see this as a positive step forward and feel able to continue to contribute to the service in a meaningful way, so that their voices in support of children and young people are heard and acted upon.”
The launch of the Charter will be celebrated in conjunction with an award ceremony for the winners of the first Fostering & Adoption Creative Writing Competition.
The competition, which ran for nine weeks over the summer, was part of an initiative aiming to create a positive platform to share voices and raise awareness about local fostering and adoption. The team are delighted with the response they had and are pleased to provide the opportunity to share stories through a creative medium, whilst helping others understand and reflect on their experiences.
Emmy Lindsey, Manager of Fostering and Adoption Jersey, added: “Children, young people and adults who have a connection with fostering or adoption often have important stories to tell. Through the competition we wanted to capture these stories and highlight the importance of the work of foster carers and adopters in Jersey.”
Fostering and Adoption Jersey hopes that through initiatives such as the Creative Writing Competition, more Islanders may consider becoming a foster parent.
