During Foster Care Fortnight (15 โ 28 May), Wakefield Council has announced several positive developments for foster carers. Notably, foster carers will receive a pay increase of approximately 12% to their maintenance rates. Additionally, mainstream foster carers will experience a notable 70% reduction in their council tax bill.
These announcements coincide with Foster Care Fortnight, which serves as a dedicated period to acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of foster carers and the fostering community. This community plays a vital role in providing children and young people with a safe and stable home environment that is closely connected to their familiar surroundings.
Foster Care Fortnight
The fortnight is organised by The Fostering Network, the UK’s leading fostering charity, aiming to raise awareness about fostering and commend the invaluable work carried out by the fostering community in ensuring the well-being and success of children in their care.
โIf you are thinking of fostering, just do it. It will get harder before it gets easier but the rewards at the end are massive. I think what means the most to us is knowing that you have helped somebody, knowing youโve made that difference.”
Karan and Mark Shaw, Foster Carers for eight years
Wakefield Council
Cllr Margaret Isherwood, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People at Wakefield Council, said: โDuring Foster Care Fortnight we want to celebrate the incredible work our foster carers do and shine a light on the strong bonds and impact created by fostering – both within the fostering community and the wider community around it.
โWe want people to see the difference our current foster carers are making to the lives of young people and children with the hope that more people will consider the positive influence they could make by becoming a foster carer themselves.
โWe need more people in the district to foster, so we can keep children in our care close to the communities and people they know.โ
Final Thought
Supporting foster carers is of utmost importance for the well-being and development of children in foster care. Foster carers play a crucial role in providing a stable and nurturing environment for children who have experienced adversity or family breakdown. By opening their homes and hearts, they offer these vulnerable children a chance to heal, grow, and thrive.
Ultimately, supporting foster carers is an investment in the well-being and future of the children in foster care. By valuing and empowering these dedicated individuals, we create a stronger and more compassionate foster care system that can truly make a difference in the lives of vulnerable children.