Shortage of foster carers is at crisis point

Kent County Council says a shortage of foster carers is reaching crisis point, with the ongoing influx of asylum seeker children making it even more challenging.

The council has warned that there are about 200 children across the county currently in need of fostering but who are unable to have a placement, with particular troubles on Tunbridge Wells, Maidstone and Tunbridge.

The national situation is seeing more children entering care. In Kent this year, 1593 children became looked after (entered care) compared to 899 in 2013/4, adding more pressure to the fostering service.

Peter Oakford, cabinet member for Specialist Children’s Services, said: “We need more foster carers now. As the number of children entering care continues to rise, councils across the country are struggling to recruit the homes we need to be able to do our best for our Looked After Children.

“We need more homes so that we have a wide range of people who can meet the diverse needs of these vulnerable young people. This means we are more able to make the right match first time and find them a stable, permanent home in which they can thrive.

“We need your help. If you have ever considered fostering, now is the time to take the plunge. It is not an easy job but Kent County Council offers all the support and training you need and it really is one of the most rewarding roles you can do.”