BROMSGROVE fostering provider Five Rivers Child Care is calling for people in the area who have children moving to university to think about fostering children in care.
A recent survey commissioned by Five Rivers showed 48 per cent of parents in the West Midlands with children who have or recently will move out are expecting to or have suffered with ’empty nest syndrome’.
Empty nest syndrome is a feeling of loneliness, sadness and loss of purpose some parents experience when their child moves out.
More than 37,000 learners across the West Midlands are going to university this year, and the study shows it would take less than two per cent of the student’s parents to foster to meet the shortfall of carers.
It’s estimated there are 720 foster homes needed across the region.
Foster carers are paid to look after children on a short or long-term basis.
Emergency foster carer roles help bridge the gap between foster placements or reunification with friends, family or returning home.
Head of Fostering at Five Rivers Child Care, Martin Leitch said: “Being an emergency foster carer or short-term foster carer with Five Rivers Child Care offers career flexibility and 24/7 support from qualified staff and a wide range of specialist training.
“We’re keen to hear from people with space in their home and their hearts who are nurturing, compassionate and enjoy supporting others, as well as anyone who has questions about fostering and the variety of roles available.”
People from all backgrounds and communities can be considered to become foster carers but they must be over 21 years of age.
Visit www.five-rivers.org, email [email protected] or call 01527 810 314 for more information.
