Here's how you can help offer a bright new start to young refugees in Harborough

Would you like to offer a bright new start to young refugees in Harborough?

If you do then you are being invited to attend a virtual information event.

It will go ahead on Facebook at 10am on Wednesday January 6.

And it’s for anyone considering becoming a foster carer or supported lodgings provider for young refugees who have arrived in the East Midlands alone and without family or support.

The event will spell out the huge positives of fostering, the application process and training and support available - as well as the payments and allowances which carers would receive.

You’ll also get the chance to hear from 17-year-old Regis, who arrived in Leicestershire from Albania when he was 15.

The teenager describes feeling “sad and scared” before he was placed with a fostering family - who supported him with day-to-day tasks and planning for his future.

Regis said: “That family was like my mum in Albania, so they are a second family for me.

“I want to be like them in my future - when I grow up I want to be like them, a happy family.”

Led by Leicestershire County Council, Place to Call Home is a partnership between councils across the East Midlands which works to recruit foster carers and supported lodgings providers for young people arriving without their parents or a trusted adult.

Cllr Deborah Taylor, the county council’s Cabinet member for children and families, said: “It’s incredibly important that we find kind-hearted individuals and families to support these young people and provide safety, security and a much-needed family environment to help them settle into a new life and improve their lives and futures.

“I would encourage anyone who feels they have the necessary skills or experience to foster to register an interest and attend the virtual event in January or get in touch with the team to find out more.”

The launch event will take place at 10am on Wednesday January 6 on the project’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/homeeastmidlandsThe video will remain available to view.

For more information about fostering young refugees call 0116 305 5898 or email [email protected]