Released On 29th Nov 2016

Save the date! Fire + Fostering event for ‘Pioneering’ people

If you work for the police, fire or ambulance services, or in health, education, a local authority or charity – and would consider fostering a child in need – Somerset County Council has an important date for your diary.

We are teaming up with Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service to host a fostering information event especially for past or present public and voluntary sector workers. The event is from 7pm to 9pm on Thursday 22 September at Taunton Fire Station.

Research by the national Fostering Network charity indicates that many public and voluntary sector workers hold the same ‘Pioneer’ values as Foster Carers. A quarter (24.7%) of Somerset employees work in the public sector*, and particularly in Sedgemoor and Taunton Deane.

Cllr Frances Nicholson, Cabinet Member for Children and Families at Somerset County Council said: “We know that, both through national findings and what we see on the ground, often people who come forward to foster have experience working in the public or charity sector. What’s more, over 80% of newly-approved Foster Carers have been found to hold strong ‘Pioneer’ values, which means they’re chiefly motivated by wanting to help others, like everyone who works in the public sector.

“We’re inviting Somerset people with experience of working in the public sector, emergency services or caring professions, or who volunteer in their communities along to our special fostering event at Taunton Fire Station. This will be a brilliant opportunity to hear from inspiring current Somerset Foster Carers, find out more about the children we urgently seek 50 new fostering households for, and how you could help them.”

Taunton Fire Station Manager, Adrian Woollaston from Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service, said: “There are many vulnerable children that are in desperate need of a loving and caring home – if you have ever thought about fostering this is a great opportunity to find out more. It could mean the world of difference to a young person’s life.”

To register your interest or book a place at this event, phone 0800 587 9900 or email AandFRecruitment@somerset.gov.uk. Taunton Station is located on Lisieux Way, Taunton TA1 2HU. The event will be held in the community room, and parking will be available at the YMCA opposite.

Find out more about Fostering in Somerset by visiting www.fosteradoptsomerset.org.uk