FOSTERING young people, who for a multitude of reasons are unable to remain at home, is a highly skilled profession ? and the need for more dedicated foster carers in West Devon is being highlighted during Fostering Fortnight (May 8 to 19). The fortnight also brings to light the issue of whether foster carers should be financially rewarded for the services they offer. Okehampton-based South West Placements, a division of Regional Foster Placements, firmly believe that foster carers should receive an appropriate level of remuneration for the services they offer. Clare Colton, senior practitioner for South West Placements said: ?We recruit foster carers from all walks of life who come from a variety of backgrounds, with a variety of existing skills. ?As an independent agency, the majority of children and young people we place come with very complex needs and may have already experienced several placements.? During the intensive assessment process, potential carers are asked to give up a considerable amount of time to enable social workers to complete a detailed assessment. It is a statutory requirement that there is one primary carer at home, and for many carers this means that one person may have to give up an existing job. For a variety of reasons, some young people may not currently be in full-time education and will require looking after during the day. Consequently, the carer will incur loss of income. Today, foster carers are regarded as professional people in their own rights. Carers are expected to attend a variety of meetings and reviews about the young person or people in their care and their opinions are widely sought. Carers are required to be an advocate for a young person and help express their wishes and feelings. Being a foster carer is an ongoing process which follows a specific career path. Carers are contracted to attend a minimum number of relevant training days per year, and undertake professional NVQ childcare awards, which involves producing a portfolio, evidencing their skills and learning. South West Placements say they require people who are not only dedicated to providing excellent services for troubled and vulnerable young people, but people who are looking for a professional career in child care. If you feel you would like to consider fostering as a career move, contact South West Placements? office at Rosemary House, Market Street, Okehampton, for a chat with a qualified social worker, during Fostering Fortnight.
