Help transform young lives through fostering
We’re celebrating our foster carers this Foster Care Fortnight, as well as looking for new carers to join our fostering family.
Foster Care Fortnight (12 to 25 May) recognises the commitment, passion, and dedication of foster carers who transform the lives of young people.
We need more local people to step forward and care for local children, especially older children and sibling groups who, through no fault of their own, cannot live with their own families.
Every foster family plays a crucial role in the lives of children and young people they care for, providing them with a loving, stable and supportive home environment where they can thrive. Living in and around Kirklees also provides a greater sense of belonging for local youngsters by allowing them to stay in familiar surroundings and remain close to their friends, family, and school.
Despite common myths about who can or can’t foster a child, we look at each application on its own merits. Our foster carers come from all walks of life including different ages, backgrounds, genders, races, religions and sexual orientations. Relationship status, employment status, or not owning your home are also not barriers if you want to foster.
Successful applicants can expect full training, expert support and a payment and benefits package. Foster carers for the council also become part of a wider team that work together to give local children the best start in life.
Councillor Viv Kendrick, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said:
“I’d like to say a huge thank you to all foster carers in Kirklees for their selfless commitment and the positive influence they bring to the lives of local children and young people.
“Our foster carers do an amazing job, opening their hearts and homes to provide young people with stability, love and support at a time when they need it most.
“As the need for foster carers continues to grow across the country, I invite those interested in fostering to learn more about the opportunities, training and support Kirklees Council can provide.
“Your kindness and commitment can transform young lives. The rewards of fostering are immeasurable, with many foster carers developing lifelong relationships with those they have cared for.”
Want to know more about fostering?
Members of our fostering team will be visiting local libraries throughout Foster Care Fortnight to share information and provide advice to anyone interested in becoming a foster carer. Go to our fostering events page to see when and where or to find details of future events.
More details and information about fostering is available at www.kirklees.gov.uk/fostering