How assist networks for foster carers could make all of the distinction

Your article (How do you turn into a foster carer – and the way a lot do you receives a commission?, 13 August) rightly centered on the monetary points of fostering, nevertheless it missed a chance to speak in regards to the assist networks which might be so very important for foster carers, but are hardly ever talked about.

In South Tyneside, we have now launched the Mockingbird mannequin, in partnership with The Fostering Community. Based mostly on the concept of getting an prolonged household, fostering households are supported by an skilled foster carer, or “hub carer”, who can provide recommendation to Mockingbird foster carers after they want a bit further assist. This extra assist helps foster carers overcome challenges and keep away from placement breakdown, whereas bettering the life possibilities of foster youngsters by constructing hyperlinks with different foster households and permitting sibling teams to remain collectively.

For the reason that launch of our first scheme, extra youngsters have been supplied with safe and secure households, and the breakdown of relationships and separation of siblings as a consequence of useful resource constraints has been averted, that means extra of our kids can develop up with the soundness they deserve.

As your article factors out, unbiased fostering companies make giant earnings. In South Tyneside, we’re captivated with supporting our personal carers to allow our kids to be cared for by them. This extends previous remuneration and into emotional and sensible assist, with improvements such because the Mockingbird mannequin proving to be efficient and vital to our carers. We consider {that a} nationwide technique aimed toward serving to native authorities to recruit and assist carers employed by them to care for his or her youngsters is significant.
Cllr Adam Ellison
Lead member for youngsters, younger folks and households, South Tyneside council