Local carers acknowledged for a job well done

26/10/05
A group of new foster carers were acknowledged recently by Community Development Minister Sheila McHale with certificates marking the completion of special preparation training.
The new recruits included Sonja Bishop of South Lakes, Joyce Allen of Spearwood, Belinda and Nick Carroll of Ellenbrook, Armadale carer Lisa Cooper, Sharon and Terence Payne and Julia O'Brien and Clinton McCarthy from the Perth hills area.
"It is pleasing to welcome more dedicated carers into the system," Ms McHale said.
"These people serve as the best recruitment tool we could hope for in our attempts to raise the profile of foster carers.
"I would like to congratulate all of the new carers for opening up their hearts and homes to children in need."
The Minister said there was a national shortage of foster carers and efforts were constantly being made to attract more.
Ms McHale said that at June 2005, there were 2,100 children in the care of the department, with 1,477 in departmental foster care or placed with relatives.
"These figures highlight the important role played by foster carers and the ongoing need to attract new carers," she said.
Foster Care Association President Faye Alford said it was always heartening to see new foster carers joining the current pool of carers.
"The more foster carers we have, the better able we are to match the child's needs to the most suitable carer," she said.
"We continually ask people to reach out and consider becoming a foster carer, short or long term, for the children in our community needing care."
People interested in learning more about becoming a foster carer can contact Fostering Services on (08) 6380 5900.
Minister's Office - 9213 6900