With more than 300 children currently in the care of the Council, and a third of these placed outside the local area, local people are being asked to consider becoming a foster carer.
More than 100 children and young people placed into care live outside the Borough, many miles away from their friends and family, because the Council does not have enough local foster carers who can provide a home.
Foster carers include Sarah, who has been a foster carer for more than five years and is currently caring for siblings. Sarah said: “Fostering has been everything we had expected. It’s been so rewarding at times and I feel that we’ve had a really positive experience overall.
“Keeping the children together is the best outcome anyone could ever wish for when they can’t be with their family any longer. It means they will grow up together, will always be able to relate to each other and share their memories.
“We’ve always wanted a big family and through fostering we are able to fulfil this lifelong dream.
“Fostering isn’t about just caring for the child, it’s been providing everything they need, from the basics in life, to love, understanding and compassion. We really hope we can give the children the best of everything and that they have the happiness they truly deserve.”
Councillor Paul Dixon, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Children’s Social Care, said: “Our foster carers make a real difference to the lives of local children, but we need more. By having more foster carers, we’ll be able to place young people closer to home meaning they will not have to move away from friends and family during what is often already a difficult time.
“I know that being a foster carer is a significant commitment, and it is natural to have questions before you choose to apply. If you are interested in applying, our team can give the answers you need and the chance to speak to carers across our local community.
People can also find out more about fostering in Swindon by visiting : www.swindon.gov.uk/fostering. Alternatively, they can call 07917 503447
or e-mail fosteringrecruitment@swindon.gov.uk