A drop-in session which gave individuals and couples a chance to learn more about becoming foster carers proved to be a success, say organisers. Around 25 people attended the session at Ramsey Town Hall on November 9 which offered visitors the chance to learn more about the challenges and rewards of becoming a foster carer, and the training and support offered by Fostering First. Experienced foster carers were on hand to answer questions and explain the different types of caring - from short term fostering and emergency fostering to long term care. Angela Fairbairn, Fostering Officer, thanked everyone who attended. She said: “I was impressed by the number of people who came along, people who wanted to explore various types of fostering. In deciding to host one of our events in Ramsey, we had no idea of how much response we would get from the north of the Island. We were very pleased that so many people took the time to come along and discuss fostering with us.” Fiona Lassen, Head of Fostering Services, added: “If this initial interest can now be taken forward we will have made a positive start towards increasing the capacity of the fostering service to meet the needs of the Island’s children.” The Ramsey drop-in session was one of three held in recent weeks. Events at The Children’s Centre in Douglas, and one in Pulrose, also attracted a lot of interest. Fostering First is a registered Manx charity set up by The Children’s Centre in April this year and is responsible for providing fostering services across the Island. For more information about Fostering First go to www.thechildrenscentre.org.im/fosteringfirst, email fosteringfirst@thechildrenscentre.org.im or call 631947. Inquiries about becoming a foster carer can also be made by visiting Fostering First’s offices at 14B Village Walk, Onchan. - ENDS -