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Jersey is facing its biggest foster care crisis in a decade, the Government has said, as it urges islanders to come forward to look after children in need of support.
It is launching an appeal today to raise awareness of the current shortage of foster carers and how people can access more information or apply to foster.
The Department for Children, Young People, Education and Skills say that there are many different types of foster care opportunities - including short and long-term care – all of which offer financial support.
New Children and Education Minister Inna Gardiner said: “Our children urgently need foster carers. We have not seen a crisis like this in Fostering and Adoption for ten years, which means that we need your help.
“I would urge any Islanders who can help to change a child’s life to get in touch with the fostering team or come along to one of our pop-ups over the summer.
“If you are considering becoming a foster carer, this is the perfect opportunity for you.
“I know it might seem like an intimidating prospect but there are different types of foster carers each with different time commitments.
“There is also a wealth of support, information, and advice if you choose to become a foster carer. I would encourage anyone who has ever thought about becoming a foster carer to get in touch and find out how we can best support you.
Islanders are being urged to consider fostering a child as Jersey faces a critical shortage in carers.
— Government of Jersey (@GovJersey) August 16, 2022
You can access information about different types of fostering on https://t.co/NhJFcyhw1D, by calling the team: 01534 443970, or emailing fosteringandadoption@health.gov.je. pic.twitter.com/j6gpoZhs0p
Pictured: The Government has launched a campaign today.
“Islanders who are 21 and over can apply to be a foster carer, and will be supported financially and emotionally while they are fostering a child, which can be a hugely rewarding experience."
Carers are currently needed for a range of needs, including emergency care, which is up to two weeks; respite and specialist short-break care; permanent foster care; and intensive full-time care for a child with high-level needs.
The Government’s fostering team will be holding informal ‘pop-up’ sessions on:
Islanders can also go to Children’s Social Care in Liberté House in La Motte Street for an informal chat.
Fostering and Adoption Jersey Team Manager Sarah Wakeham, said: “When you become a foster carer you become part of the Fostering and Adoption team and we take your wellbeing and development very seriously.
“With this in mind, you will be fully supported in your role with an allocated social worker to offer supervision and guidance and you will also receive ongoing training, as well as financial support.
“As long as you are 21 or over, there is no upper age limit. Anyone who can offer a child a stable, nurturing, and supportive home is encouraged to apply regardless of your marital status, gender, or sexuality.”
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