A new advice line for foster carers, their families and fostering services in Wales will be launched today (Tuesday 16 January) at the National Assembly For Wales.
Fosterline Wales, funded by the Welsh Assembly Government and run by the Fostering Network Wales will provide a free, independent source of information and confidential advice for existing and prospective foster carers on all aspects of foster care, from leaving care provision, to issues relating to legislation or finance.
The advice line will be launched at an all-party event chaired by Helen-Mary Jones AM. Speakers at the launch include Minister for Children, Jane Hutt and Fostering Network Wales director, Jane Butler. Butler will outline the role of the advice line and encourage the 2,000 foster carers in Wales to use the free service. A foster carer and young person will talk from personal experience about the benefits of the new resource.
Helen-Mary Jones AM said: "Bringing up children is a vitally important role. If children have already experienced setbacks in life which bring them into foster care, then it is even more important to get things right for them. Foster carers and those who work with them are key to achieving this. Fosterline Wales can make a contribution by giving independent advice to carers and others involved in fostering - this new service will be hugely valued."
Minister for Children Jane Hutt said: "I am pleased the Welsh Assembly Government has been able to provide almost £50,000 for this important resource for foster carers in Wales. As a Government we recognise the tremendous contribution foster carers make to children's services and the importance and role of fostering support services. I am certain the advice line will be a valuable service for everyone involved in looking after fostered children."
Angie Baker, a foster carer from Wales said: "I have been fostering teenagers for the past three years, the job is hugely rewarding, however, like all jobs there are times when it can be challenging and stressful. Foster carers work at home, often alone and can sometimes feel a little isolated. At times we just need someone to speak to when faced with a complicated issue, such as changes in the law or guidance on how to handle a difficult situation with a young person in our care. I am delighted Fosterline Wales is now here to help us."
For more information, to attend the launch or to arrange an interview contact the Fostering Network press office on 020 7620 6441/6416 or email media@fostering.net