As we make plans for the year ahead, could 2021 be the year you become a foster carer? Sefton Council is urging local people to think about giving a loving home to a local child who really needs it.

The Coronavirus pandemic is having a huge impact on vulnerable children’s lives meaning that we need foster carers now more than ever. Whilst restrictions mean we are recruiting a little differently, we’re still urgently calling for people to come forward to find out more about this rewarding role.



Dorsey and her husband Daniel have been fostering with Sefton for seven months and became new carers during the pandemic.



Dorsey said; “This is the best thing we have ever done, and we love every minute of it. If anyone is thinking about fostering, please don’t let COVID restrictions put you off. We went through our training and were approved during lockdown and the constant contact and support from Sefton Council has been amazing. They have been with us every step of the way.



“Our ten-year-old boy and eight-year-old girl absolutely love helping out and having fun with our foster child and this experience has really brought our family closer together. During lockdown we’ve been able to go for walks and trips to the park and it’s heart-breaking to know that some children don’t have any family during these challenging and often isolating times.”



Cllr John Joseph Kelly, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Schools and Safeguarding, said; “There is now more of a need to recruit new carers than ever before. Our foster care capacity is full, and we need to recruit a least 20 more additional carers by the end of this year.



“We can see how the COVID pandemic has brought out people’s compassion and willingness to help one another. Fostering gives a unique opportunity to give something back as you will be helping our most vulnerable children achieve their full potential by giving them the best start in life.

“Some people may be experiencing changes to their work and personal lives and may have seen their circumstances change as a result of the Coronavirus lockdown.

“It is a period where some people are evaluating their lives and thinking about changes for the future. I urge anyone who has thought about becoming a foster carer to take this opportunity to find out more and see whether giving this vital support is for them.”

Carers receive full training and support, plus payments for their skills and allowances.

Join us at our next virtual Fostering Information Session on 26 January 6.00 – 7.00pm to find out more and meet Katy one of our carers who knows what opening your home to fostering is all about.



To make an enquiry or join our virtual information session please visit www.seftonfostering.co.uk or call 0800 923 2777.



Foster carers Dorsey and Daniel are available for interviews on request. Please email charlene.smith@sefton.gov.uk