Become one of our wonderful team of Short Breaks+ foster carers by opening up your home and heart to local youngsters.
Short Breaks+ foster carers look after children in their own home – it could be just day care, overnight, or longer periods during the school holidays.
You will be creating wonderful memories for the children in your care, joining a welcoming and supportive community and enjoying a satisfying and fulfilling role helping shape the next generation of care experienced youngsters live their best lives.
Cllr Julie Reed, cabinet member for children, families, and communities, said: “Short breaks are crucial. Children and young people are helped to build further trusting relationships, create new friendships and enjoy new experiences – all in a safe and supportive environment; thriving as they grow.
“The support offered via our outstanding Short Breaks+ foster carers is inspirational, both for the children and their families. It enables the parents and carers to have a little break themselves whilst knowing their children are being well cared for.
“If you do have a weekend a month and have some caring experience, or feel you would like to learn more, please get in touch with the team.”
Through March, North Lincolnshire Council has highlighted the Short Breaks+ service and how people can join the fostering community – we are particularly looking for short break carers for care experienced youngsters with additional needs.
This is a flexible, part-time role and people are welcomed from all walks of life, ages and backgrounds – some current carers are full time parents and also work.
Short Breaks+ carers get the same level of support and training as full-time foster carers:
• A nominated fostering social worker who will provide regular support and supervision
• Practical support and advice via support groups
• Comprehensive training
A Short Breaks+ foster carer, said: “Short Breaks+ can be a real lifeline for the families of children with disabilities and additional needs who might sometimes be faced with a limited support network.
“As parents of a special needs young person we understand that all parents and carers need a little break sometimes.
“Being a Short Breaks+ foster carer is the most rewarding thing we have ever done, and as it’s short breaks we can still have some time for ourselves and our family.
“I would absolutely encourage someone to foster as a short break carer for children with disabilities. It introduces you to fostering and the world it encompasses.”
To find out more about becoming a Short Breaks+ foster carer, visit the website, email fostering@northlincs.gov.uk or call 01724 297024.
