Appeal for foster carers

Fostering drop in event being held for all v.2

A council leader is appealing to people interested in fostering to get involved and help other young people achieve their dreams, following her own experience as a looked after child.

Midlothian Council is hosting a Find Out About Fostering event at Dalkeith Arts Centre for anyone who wants to learn more about offering a home to a child or young person later this month.

Council leader Councillor Kelly Parry said as a looked-after child and now a mum herself, she would urge anyone even vaguely considering fostering to go along to the event.

She said: “I’ve met so many care-experienced young people in Midlothian, who like me, couldn’t be looked after all the time by their parents, through no fault of their own.

“Most have a fantastic future ahead of them thanks to the love and support of foster carers.

“In Midlothian, we value our foster carers, which is why we make sure our ongoing training, support and financial rewards are among the best in the country.

“So please consider fostering to give a child or young person the best start in life in a caring, stable home.

“I’m proud and honoured, as a former looked-after child, to now be leading the council. Help me make sure all Midlothian’s young people have the same opportunities I have.”

The local authority currently has around 30 foster ‘families’ which include single foster carers and 58 children and young people in foster care.

The drop in is being held at the centre, on Buccleuch Street, between 10.30am and 12 noon, on Wednesday, August 30.

The council’s fostering team will also be online in the evening for a chat with anyone unable to get along in person between ‘6,30pm and 8pm.

The fostering service said: “Drop in for a coffee/tea and have an informal chat about the training and rewards that come with fostering with us.

“We’re always looking for individuals and couples from all walks of life to offer a loving, caring home to a Midlothian child or young person. You must have a spare room though.”

To join the conversation in the evening online email the team at [email protected] to book.

To find out more go to www.midlothian.gov.uk/fostering