WelCom May 2018:
Let the children come’
Do you and your family have the ability to provide a safe, stable, nurturing and loving home? Social agencies are calling for more foster caregivers at a time of a chronic shortage of caregivers.
Catholic Social Services works in close partnership with Oranga Tamariki – Ministry for Children and other inter-agencies such as Society of St Vincent de Paul’s social work group, Red Cross and Presbyterian Support Services.
‘Caregivers are as diverse as the tamariki they look after’. Photo: Oranga Tamariki
CSS Director Dave Olivier says there is a huge need for foster parents. ‘The agencies involved struggle to find people who are willing to put themselves forward in looking after these kids, which in my opinion is an immensely important role,’ he says. ‘There are some amazing foster parents out there doing an amazing job. But it’s a challenge. You’ve got to be in it for at least the medium to long term. Part of the reason children are in foster care is because they need someone who is loving and caring.’
Doug Fauchelle, Caregiver Social Work Supervisor at Oranga Tamariki, says, ‘We’re looking for people in the greater Wellington area who love children and young people and who don’t ever give up. That’s it. We can help with the rest! If you have a room (or two) and can provide a safe, loving home then you can make a difference. We need people from all walks of life to care for children and teenagers. This is your opportunity to create positive outcomes for our tamariki in a practical way. There are many types of care from temporary and respite right through to permanent and we’ll support you in which ever role you choose.
‘The children need someone to feel attached to, to feel loved and have consistency. They need someone who has got time, compassion, empathy, care, someone who is willing to open their home and provide them with love. It can be tough at times – but it can also be a life-changing experience for everyone involved.’
CSS Senior Social Worker Brendy Weir meets monthly with OT at community response meetings. Brendy worked for the agency for 20 years when it was called Child, Youth and Family. ‘Some of my years there were focused on supporting foster parents, and I understand the challenges of finding good foster parents.’
There are many types of care from temporary and respite right through to permanent and we’ll support you in which ever role you choose.
Doug says, ‘We invite you to, “Open your heart, open your home. Change the world one life at a time”. If you are interested in becoming a foster carer you can ring me direct on (04) 917-1140 to learn more.’
For more information go to:
orangatamariki.govt.nz/caring-for-someone/becoming-a-caregiver/
orangatamariki.govt.nz/assets/Uploads/Documents/Caregivers-Handbook-June-2017.pdf