Could you be a 'short break' foster carer?

It's hoped a new extension to foster carer recruitment will encourage people to get involved who want to foster, but who may not have the time or ability to do so 24/7. 

The Family Placement Service is looking for people who can spare a few days or weeks at a time to support foster carers/parents by taking care of children for 'short breaks'.

It says 'a wider pool of foster carers would enable fostering services to be able to match the needs of each child more closely with the skills that each foster carer brings, and to find the right homes for the children who need our support'.

Short-term care arrangements may be needed if, for example, other carers have medical issues to attend to and need to plan a short break. 

There are also many children with additional needs who are supported by the Family Placement Service, and their parents may need a short break (either regularly or in an emergency). 

Manx Care says supporting parents and carers in this way 'can mean the difference between a happy long-term outcome and a serious crisis'.

Ed Coates, Fostering and Adoption Group Manager, said: "Our foster carers come from a variety of backgrounds and bring a wide range of life and work experiences with them.

"They are the backbone of our service and make a huge contribution by opening their homes and building trusting relationships with children, young people and often their families. 

"We really appreciate the work they do, and the legacy they are creating for a new generation of young people on the Island. The common thread is they all need that extra bit of support and stability."

He added: "As a short break carer, you may be in full or part-time employment but will need to be able to provide some time either on a regular or planned basis. 

"Anyone seriously interested in fostering will have lots of questions and this is the perfect opportunity to have a chat with us and find out more."

There are several ways to get in touch:

There is an online enquiry form on the government website, or call 01624 610000 or email familyplacementservice@gov.im to find out more, or to express an interest in short break/foster care.