23 April 2019
MEDIA RELEASE
Queensland Foster & Kinship Carers Week 22-28 April 2019
Child, youth and family service Life Without Barriers is celebrating Queensland Foster & Kinship Carers Week in by thanking their many dedicated foster and kinship carers, and encouraging others in the community to consider becoming carers.
Life Without Barriers Queensland State Director Helena Holdaway said that there are always children in the community who are in need of great foster carers.
“This week is about celebrating our many fantastic foster and kinship carers who are focussed on what’s best for children. However, there are more children in our community who need care and we do need more people to consider becoming foster carers,” Ms Holdaway said.
Life Without Barriers is looking for carers from all cultural backgrounds and family types – singles, couples with or without children, including same sex couples, whether you rent or own your home. As well as long term foster carers, short term and emergency carers are also needed.
“We need carers who are focussed on what’s best for children and can support them to achieve their full potential. Carers also need to be open to learning more about how we can support children to manage any challenging feelings and behaviours they have as a result of trauma and being separated from their families,” Ms Holdaway said.
“We know there would be many people in the community who would be able to do this and who are willing to open their home and share their time and resources with children and to include them in their family.
“As a carer for Life Without Barriers, you will be able to access a lot of support. Carers get initial and ongoing training suited to their level of experience and the needs of the children in their care. They have access to 24/7 support, at any time of the day or night if they need advice or direction in a stressful situation. They receive a tax free allowance to support the needs of children and can access respite care if it’s in the children’s interests.
“You will also form part of a carer network, so you can get support and advice from other carers in your area, including more experienced carers.
“If you think this could be you, I encourage you to get in touch with our team. Even if you aren’t sure, and need more information, get in touch.”
If you are interested in becoming a foster carer, find out more at:
1300 592 227
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