West Sussex County Council is looking for more people to come forward as foster carers this new year and make a real difference to a vulnerable child.
Foster homes offer children and young people a stable family environment while their own parents are unable to look after them.
Paula has been a foster carer for three years.
She said: “I couldn’t imagine doing anything that is more rewarding than this.
“It has been challenging – every child has different needs but you do receive a lot of support – the family placement workers are brilliant and there is always someone on hand 24 hours a day.
“The training you receive is also superb. I think people can be anxious about what to expect and how they will cope with different scenarios but training is available and it is fantastic.
“Fostering has been life-changing for my whole family. They have been involved every step of the way and they have found it to be just as rewarding.
“To be able to see a child happily playing and knowing they are well cared for makes me feel proud, not only of myself but also of my family.”
Peter Evans, County Council Cabinet Member for Children – Start of Life, said: “Foster carers play a vital role in giving a loving and stable home to children and young people at a time when they need it most.
“If you have ever thought about becoming a foster carer, why not make it your new year’s resolution to make that step this year.
“We will be holding drop-in sessions at venues across West Sussex throughout 2014 for anyone who wants to find out more.”
Foster carers come from all walks of life and from a range of cultural and ethnic backgrounds. People from a variety of backgrounds can apply to foster, regardless of their marital status or sexuality.
Fostering can be either short or long-term and can range from just a few days to several years. There are also several different types of fostering.
To find out more about fostering or for the 2014 fostering drop-in session dates, visit the website at www.westsussex.gov.uk/fostering or call 0330 222 7775.