Children's services
Black Country councils join forces to find more foster carers for local children
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Four local authorities have joined forces to launch Black Country Fostering, a new regional partnership that will make it easier for people to become foster carers and strengthen support for foster families across the region.
The launch of Black Country Fostering marks a significant step forward in the way fostering services are promoted and delivered across Walsall, Dudley, Sandwell and Wolverhampton. The partnership has been developed in response to the growing need for more foster carers and supports the national ambition to create 10,000 additional places for children who need safe, stable and loving homes.
The initiative brings together the expertise and resources of the four local authorities to create a stronger, more collaborative approach to recruiting and supporting foster carers. Through a single point of contact, prospective carers will be able to access information, guidance and advice more easily, while existing foster carers will continue to benefit from comprehensive training, development opportunities and ongoing support.
“ Black Country Fostering represents an exciting opportunity to make a real difference to the lives of children and young people across our region.
“Every child deserves the chance to grow up in a safe, stable and nurturing home where they feel valued, supported and able to thrive. By encouraging more people to consider fostering and ensuring they have the right support throughout their journey, we can help more local children remain connected to their families, schools and communities wherever possible.
“I am proud to see Walsall playing a key role in this partnership and look forward to the positive impact it will have for children, families and communities across the Black Country. “
Building on existing partnerships across the Black Country, the programme will provide a more coordinated and consistent fostering offer for residents. By working together, the councils aim to raise awareness of fostering, reach new audiences and encourage more people to consider making a difference to the lives of local children and young people.
“ Being a foster carer means you want the best for the children who come into your home – however long they stay with you for – you will always care for them and their wellbeing. All of us who foster for Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall and Wolverhampton have that in common and it’s that spirit of cooperation that’s created Black Country Fostering.
“Now we want to raise the profile of Black Country Fostering so that the people we need come and join us, so we can keep the children who need a stable home in the local area, that’s what Black Country Fostering is all about. “
Black Country Fostering will deliver a programme of marketing and recruitment campaigns designed to highlight the realities and rewards of caring for vulnerable children, tackle common misconceptions and inspire more people to take the next step. Carers will benefit from local training, financial support and dedicated guidance from experienced fostering professionals throughout their journey.
Advice for those thinking about fostering
Anyone who has ever considered fostering is being encouraged to find out more through the new Black Country Fostering website.
Many people who have the qualities needed to become foster carers rule themselves out because they believe they do not meet the requirements. In reality, carers come from a wide range of backgrounds and are supported through every stage of their fostering journey with training, guidance and ongoing support.
Prospective carers will also have the opportunity to speak with experienced foster carers through a fostering ambassador scheme, helping them gain a first-hand understanding of the role and the difference it can make to a child's life.
To find out more, visit the Black Country Fostering website, follow Black Country Fostering on social media, or speak to a member of the recruitment team on 0800 923 3706.
ENDS
Note to Editors
Black Country Fostering is a collaborative partnership between Walsall Council, Dudley Council, Sandwell Children's Trust and the City of Wolverhampton Council, bringing together fostering services from across the Black Country to recruit, support and retain foster carers for local children and young people.
The initiative provides a single point of contact for anyone interested in fostering, making it easier to access information, advice and guidance. It also offers ongoing training and support for foster carers throughout their fostering journey.
Black Country Fostering forms part of a national Department for Education (DfE) programme designed to strengthen local authority fostering services and increase the number of fostering households available to meet growing demand.
For more information, visit the designated Black Country Fostering website or call 0800 923 3706.
