Duchess to celebrate role of foster carers

By The Press Association16th January 2015News EnglandChildren, Foster Care, News England

The Duchess of Cambridge will learn about the world of fostering today when she meets carers and young people who have been fostered.

Kate will travel to the offices of Islington Council in London where the Fostering Network is hosting a reception to celebrate the work of foster carers.

The charity says that more than 63,000 children live with more than 52,500 foster families across the UK, and these youngsters have often experienced neglect and abuse or witnessed domestic violence.

There is a need for at least 8,600 new foster families across the UK, particularly to offer homes to teenagers, disabled children and groups of brothers and sisters.

During the visit the Duchess will meet foster carers, social workers, and care leavers to discuss the role of fostering and the need for more foster carers, and to hear the stories of those who have experienced fostering.

Lucy Peake, director of development at the Fostering Network, said: “The Fostering Network has, for 40 years, been at the forefront of the development and growth of foster care right across the UK.

“A visit from the Duchess helps to shine a spotlight on fostering and the need for more foster carers, particularly to look after teenagers, disabled children and groups of brothers and sisters.

“We are very grateful to her for her interest, and know that the foster carers and care leavers attending our event today are excited to be sharing their experiences and stories with her.”