Outreach Radio supports Foster Focus Week. Could you offer a child a home?

The Week beginning the 25th of October is Foster Focus Week.  To support this Outreach Radio has conducted several interviews in conjunction with Hampshire County Council.

In the first interview, Maggie spoke with a foster family about their experiences within foster care.  Chris and Karen are experienced foster carers, who started fostering in their 50’s.  Chloe and her sister arrived in their home seven and-a-half years ago and have since gone on to thrive.

Chloe is currently attending university and is hoping to pursue a career in the Police force.  This would not have been possible if not for the love and support that she has received from Chris, Karen and their wider family.

The second interview is with two members of the Foster Care Team.  Rebecca is an assessing social worker and very likely the first person you will see upon starting your journey as a foster carer.  Rebecca is the team manager and  shares some insights into the process to becoming a foster carer.

Nationally, a child is placed into the care system every three days.  The Hampshire Fostering Team have noticed an increase in the number of referrals since the pandemic began, also Hampshire has a growing population, both of these factors mean that there is a high demand for demand for foster carers.

There are no stereotypical foster carers; they are as diverse as the children that they care for.  There is no upper age limit either.  Foster carers come from all walks of life and do an incredible job.

Could you be a foster carer?

Listen to the Foster Focus Week Part 1 Interview
Listen to the Foster Focus Week Part 2 Interview

If you would like more information please contact the Fostering Team:

Website:  www.hants.gov/fostering

Email:  fostering@hants.gov.uk

Phone: 01489 587052