Exploding the Myths about Fostering
11.05.10
Seven myths surrounding fostering are helping to create a shortfall in carers in according to a leading independent foster care agency.
In the run-up to national Foster Care Fortnight (17-30 May), Pathway Care Midlands is urging local householders to step forward and find out more about it. "There are so many myths surrounding fostering that it is clearly putting off people who would be ideally suited to undertake such work," says Joyce Masson, Regional Director with Pathway Care Midlands.
"In the UK there is an estimated shortage of 10,000 foster carers and it is very important to address this and get these children into a safe and supportive environment. In our experience some of the most successful applicants have been thinking about fostering for years, but have held back from applying for one or a number of reasons. For some, there is a belief that they simply could not afford to foster - but the days of meeting expenses from out of your own pocket have long gone".
"Foster carers come from all walks of life and have a range of life experiences to draw on. Some may have a natural vocation towards becoming a carer, others possessing transferable skills gained from a variety of work ranging from caring for the elderly, or people with disabilities, teaching assistants, retired police officers or coming from a background in the armed services.
"Being a foster carer can be challenging work, but with it can come great satisfaction. Some of our carers have enjoyed a very good life and feel they want to give something back to society, others come from difficult backgrounds and have overcome adversity and now want to help others in a similar situation.
If you think you can help your local community by becoming a foster carer why not contact Pathway Care to find out more on 0871 2263760.
However, before you rule yourself out please see below some of the most common myths about fostering:
1. I can't afford to foster. Carers through Pathway Care receive good
Remuneration for their services, which is tax free and all expenses are met.
2. I am too old to foster. People often rule themselves out because of their age.
3. We've never had children of our own, we won't be considered. This is a total misconception. We are looking for people who have experience of children - so if you have been very involved with children from your wider family - or friends - this may count. Perhaps you work with children through your job, or have been actively involved with youth groups etc.
4. I'm a single carer, I can't possibly be considered. Yes you can, but it is
recognised that being a single parent is tough and you would need to be able to demonstrate a good support network is in place through family and friends.
5. I've only heard negative feedback about foster children and this has put
me off finding out more. The public perception of foster children is that they can be very difficult and likely to be troublesome. Whilst recognising that children do come with issues and can be challenging, they respond to support and care and the level of satisfaction you can gain from helping them can be immense.
6. I can't foster because I've been in trouble with the police. In many
instances this just isn't true. It is, however, dependent on the type of
conviction and when it was received. People who have turned their lives
around can prove to be excellent foster carers.
7. I live in a social deprived area, I can't possibly foster. If you have the
necessary skills to foster and your accommodation is suitable - a child must have his or her own bedroom - then don't rule yourself out.
