SOUTH West Placements in Okehampton marked Fostering Fortnight by holding an open day at its Market Street office last week to allow people to find out more about the rewarding opportunities offered by fostering. Mark Breeze, fostering social worker for the agency, said: ?Nationally, there is a shortage of foster carers of around 10,000 ? this shortage is particularly acute in the West of England. We are keen to help fill that gap.? South West Placements have had a branch office in Rosemary House, Market Street, Okehampton, for just over a year. Mark said: ?We have a number of carers in Okehampton and the surrounding areas, but our catchment area also goes down into Cornwall and up to Dorset.? He said where possible the Government was keen to put the emphasis on placements within the local area as this could help to avoid disruption and maintain links with existing school and family. As well as the open day, South West Placements have also leafletted homes in the area to try to raise the profile of fostering and awareness of the shortfall of foster parents. South West Placements recognise that most children who need a foster placement are among the most disadvantaged in society and to help change this, they need the best quality care possible. For some children, the aim is for a return home in as short a time as possible, while others may remain in care until early adulthood. Mark acknowledged there were discrepancies in terms of age: ?Older children are more difficult to place. There are various reasons people get into fostering ? their own children have grown up, they are childless for whatever reason ? but fostering teenagers can be every bit as productive or rewarding?. The qualities needed to make a successful foster carer include the ability to provide a safe and protective environment and a good standard of care and good communication skills. Mark said all carers receive a financial package which supports a high standard of child care, as well as receiving training and support. ?It takes between three to four months to assess someone?s capacity to meet the demands of the job of fostering,? Mark added. If you would like to find out more about fostering contact South West Placements on 0800 0191165.
