Leicestershire families who already have children urged to consider fostering

Families with children are being urged to consider fostering

Families who already have children are being consider fostering.

Leicestershire County Council says children of foster carers play a contribution to supporting other children in care.

Ellie, her husband Tom and two children are one of the families currently fostering in Leicestershire. They are caring for an 18-month-old baby.

Ellie said “We explained fostering to our children using age-appropriate language. We talk to them constantly and remind them they and the child are important to us.

“We also involved the children in the whole process; they love having a foster brother to play with. It’s a really positive experience for the whole family.

“We all get excited by the baby’s milestones and that’s lovely to share. It’s a personal decision, but if you’re thinking about it, it’s probably likely it’ll be right for you.”

Ellie’s birth daughter Imogen, age 10, added: “It’s strange at first, but it’s quite fun. It is sad when foster children leave, but it’s not all bad, most of the time we see them again. I love to play with my foster brother.

“He makes us laugh because he likes watching the washing machine!”

Leicestershire County Council children and families spokeswoman Cllr Deborah Taylor said: “Birth children of foster carers can make a massive difference to children and young people in care.

“We know for some families, the potential impact on their children is a barrier to becoming a foster carer. However, the reality is that many children benefit from being part of the support network offered by a fostering family to a child they are looking after.

“We also know they can really help a child or young person settle into family life, helping them to feel welcome and loved. They do an amazing job and we’d like to thank them for wonderful the support and care they offer.”

The authority is holding virtual foster events on the evenings on November 1 and 23, and December 12.

Visit www.FosteringLeicestershire.com to book, email [email protected] or call 0116 305 0505.