A major campaign to encourage more people to consider whether they have the qualities to foster is being launched by the Fostering Network Northern Ireland on Monday 12 May.
Michael McGimpsey, minister of health, will be launching Foster Care Fortnight at Stormont sports pavilion on Monday 12 May. Young people in foster care will be invited to take part in a penalty shoot-out again, to highlight the need for more foster carers for teenagers, especially boys. The event will be attended by the new foster carers of the year (to be announced 9 May), other social care professionals and children and young people in foster care. New figures on the number of foster carers needed in Northern Ireland over the next year will be released at the event.
This year, under the strapline fostering: recognise the qualities you’ve got, Foster Care Fortnight encourages people to realise that they may already share the same qualities as those currently fostering, and that these are the basis for becoming a great foster carer. Key qualities include strong listening and observational skills, a good sense of humour, optimism and resilience.
Kate Lewis, director of the Fostering Network Northern Ireland, said: "While almost anyone can apply to be a foster carer, like with any career, some people will be more suited to it than others. This recruitment campaign identifies the everyday qualities, which form the foundations for becoming a good foster carer."
"In particular, we’re looking for people who have the qualities to take on the challenges and rewards of fostering teenagers, such as patience, listening skills, understanding, energy, empathy and a great sense of humour. I hope this campaign encourages people to ask themselves if they have the qualities needed to be a foster carer, and if they think they have, to come forward and find out more."
To find out more about fostering and becoming a foster carer visit www.couldyoufoster.org.uk.