Drop-in sessions to be held on fostering in Billingshurst

The all-day event is being held on Tuesday January 14, from 10.00am to 4.00pm, at Billingshurst Library in Mill Lane, andwill provide people with a chance to speak to members of West Sussex County Council’s fostering team and find out what being a foster carer involves.

Paula, from the Horsham district, has been a foster carer for three years.

She said: “I couldn’t imagine doing anything that is more rewarding than this.

“The assessment process isn’t easy but as we are looking after other people’s children, it’s understandable and - despite the challenges - it is so worthwhile.

“If you are thinking about fostering and you want to make a difference to someone’s life – I’d say just go for it.”

Peter Evans, WSCC’s cabinet member for children – start of ;life, said: “We will be running monthly drop-in sessions for potential foster carers across West Sussex in 2014.

“They are extremely useful – no question is ever too big or too small and the fostering team will always be happy to help you find out more.

“Being a foster carer is extremely rewarding – you would be providing a safe and loving home to a child at a time when they need it most.”

Foster carers come from all walks of life and from a range of cultural and ethnic backgrounds. People from a variety of backgrounds can apply to foster, regardless of their marital status or sexuality.

Fostering can be either short or long-term and can range from just a few days to several years. There are also several types of fostering.

Foster carers receive a comprehensive support package from the council, including on-going training and financial allowances to meet the needs of the children and young people in their care.

To find out more about fostering, or for future drop-in dates, visit WSCC’s website or phone 033 022 27775.