Foster Care Associates are to host a fostering information event in Bristol on Tuesday 24 November from 4 – 8pm.

People interested in finding out more about becoming a foster carer are invited to attend the drop-in information event run by Foster Care Associates (FCA) at their offices at Eden Office Park, 64 Macrae Road, Ham Green, Bristol.

Potential foster carers can find out first-hand from FCA carers and experienced social workers how to get involved and help dozens of children and young people in Bristol who are in need of a foster family.

Claire Jones, from FCA Western, said:

“There is an urgent need for more foster carers across Bristol. We are actively looking for responsible, nurturing adults who have a spare room and can give children and young people in need of a foster home the support they need to thrive and grow.

“There are many factors that make up an ideal candidate – everything from being adaptable, resilient and nurturing to being a good listener and flexible in response to a young person’s needs. We’d really like to hear from potential foster carers to take on some of our more challenging placements. These could range from young people with behavioural problems to teenage mothers who want to be fostered with their own child.”

Unlike adoption, a fostered child remains the legal responsibility of the local authority and/or their birth parents, and ensures that children who cannot be with their parents or other relatives, for whatever reason, can be cared for in a family situation.

The drop in event will provide information to people interested in taking the first step into providing foster care. In addition to finding out about the extensive support the organisation provide to their foster carers, visitors will be able to chat to some of their carers and FCA support team, who will be able to answer any questions.

Claire continues:

“Fostering is an incredibly rewarding experience. We have some amazing people caring for children and young people in Bristol, and our regional office in Ham Green ensures that those local to the area benefit from the support we have to offer whenever they need it.”

For more information on becoming a foster carer with the FCA call 0800 022 4012, email startyourjourney@thefca.co.uk or visit www.thefca.co.uk