Shortage Of Derbyshire Carers For Older Children

Foster carers are urgently needed in Derbyshire for children over five years old, according to figures released by a children’s charity.

Barnardo’s East Midlands Placement Service says it was unable to find homes for 69 children referred during 2006-7.

The charity has revealed the information to mark the start of national Foster Care Fortnight, which starts on Monday. It is co-ordinated by national charity Fostering Network to raise awareness of fostering and to find much-needed foster carers.

During the fortnight, Barnardo’s East Midlands Family Placement Service, based at Spondon, will be highlighting the need for more foster carers for older children and teenagers.

Barnardo’s manager Tracey Easter said: “Foster carers play a vital role in giving Derbyshire children and young people the best opportunity to fulfil their potential.

“In 2006-7, we found families for 23 children and 18 of those were aged five to 15.

“We need to recruit a whole range of foster carers to reflect the diversity of the children needing families.”

To find out more about fostering, call Barnardo’s East Midlands Family Placement Service on Derby 544711 or e-mail [email protected]