LOCAL APPEAL FOR EX-MILITARY PERSONNEL TO CONSIDER FOSTERING AS A NEW CAREER
25.05.10
Catherine Rioda, Head of Practice with Pathway Care East England says that ex-service personnel possess “transferable skills” that make them potentially excellent candidates for a career in fostering. It could also prove to be a great opportunity for those soldiers invalided out of the army and remain fit enough to fulfill a demanding, yet rewarding new role which can bring immense job satisfaction.
“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.
“The skills and qualities that are instilled in servicemen and women - such as leadership, loyalty, being a reliable team player and looking out for your colleagues – are traits that would assist in the development of both young children through to teenagers and in particular preparing young people for independent living.
“Every year around 24,000 ex-service men and women leave the armed forces in the UK and look to find a job on Civvy Street. In recent years, this has become a much harder task given the high levels of national unemployment and a glut of highly qualified and experienced executives looking for work, not to mention many thousands of unemployed graduates.”
“The Ministry of Defence says that 96% of people leaving the military find employment within six months. However, ForceSelect, a specialist recruitment agency, estimates that there are currently around 50,000 unemployed ex-forces personnel in Britain.”
Catherine Rioda says that the today’s high unemployment makes it far more difficult for anyone looking to find any job, let alone a new career. “There is no doubt that in the 60’s and 70’s anyone leaving the army with a trade was almost guaranteed to be snapped-up. Whilst their skills are still recognised, the current jobs market makes it far tougher for them.
“For those servicemen and women that ‘signed-up’ for a long service stint – up to 22 years – moving back into civvy street aged 40 can prove to be a tough time. However, we believe fostering provides a great opportunity for them and their highly developed skills and values would make a valuable contribution to the ongoing development of both young children as well as older teenagers.”
Pathway Care has experienced staff that can help and support foster carers all the way and provide ongoing training.
If you would like to know more about becoming a foster carer please contact Pathway Care 0871 2263760, or visit our website: www.pathwaycare.com
