The organisation responsible for foster care across the Island is launching a new scheme to help families caring for disabled children. Fostering First wants to hear from anyone who can become a ‘short break’ foster carer. Fiona Lassen, Fostering Services Manager at Fostering First, explained why the new scheme is needed. She said:
“Research indicates that parents of disabled children are more likely to experience family break-up. Short breaks – where their child is looked after by a foster carer – can reduce family stress and prevent this leading to a crisis point. Short break fostering means that a child will visit for a short period on a regular basis and give their family a chance to have a break of their own, relax on their own, or spend more time with other members of the family. In addition, short breaks allow children being looked after by a foster carer to broaden their horizons, meet new people, and develop a sense of independence.”
Fostering First is part of the Family Placement Services division of The Children’s Centre which is the Island’s leading charity for families and children. Short breaks can mean overnight or weekend stays, day care, or a visit to have tea. It may involve caring for a disabled child one day per month. Fostering First says that short break carers can come from a wide variety of backgrounds, but they must enjoy working with parents and children, have a willingness to help a disabled child realise their potential, and must be patient, understanding, and dedicated. The role is ideal for anyone that may have been a carer in the past, or who has experience of looking after children with special needs. However, previous experience isn’t essential as applicants will be given extensive training and support. Before being accepted for training as short break foster carers applicants must undergo medical and criminal record checks and provide references. Once this process has been completed short break carers will attend the same training courses as full-time foster carers and, in addition, they will be given specialist training regarding caring for disabled children. Disabled children looked after by short break carers may have learning difficulties or physical disabilities, which may be mild to severe. Some children may be very physically active, while others may have mobility problems or use a wheelchair. Other children may have communication problems or limited speech. Fiona added:
“Becoming a short break carer is a challenging but tremendously rewarding experience. Looking after a disabled child for a few hours, a day, or a weekend on a regular basis, can make a big difference to them and their families. We would like to hear from anyone interested in this role to come and have a chat with our friendly team and answer any questions they may have.”
If you are interested in becoming a short break foster carer email fosteringfirst@thechildrenscentre.org.im or call 631947. Inquiries can also be made by visiting Fostering First’s offices at Bourne House, 97 Woodbourne Road, Douglas. More information can be found at http://www.thechildrenscentre.org.im/what-we-do/fostering-first/.
