My Forever Family NSW supports, trains and advocates for foster and kinship carers, guardians and adoptive parents who bring stability to the lives of children and young people in care. With 15,223 children living in the out-of-home care system across the state, more carer homes are needed, particularly in the New England district. 

Right now, there are children in the community who need a safe place to call home. Part-time carers play an important role in the community and become a part of a child’s extended support network. To find and inform potential new part-time carers in the Armidale region, My Forever Family NSW will hold a free Becoming a Carer for Kids Information Session for local residents on Tuesday 20^th June from 5:30pm-7pm at Armidale Ex Services Memorial Club. Part-time or respite carers provide a secure home for children and young people for short periods of time such as weekends, once a month or during school holidays.  

The Department of Communities and Justice NSW data for 2021 shows that 952 children and young people are living in out-of-home care in Armidale and New England region, making up 6% of all children and young people in out-of-home care. These are children and young people who can’t live safely with their family and need a safe and nurturing place to call home.   

For many carers, part-time care allows them to support children and young people living in the out-of-home care system while balancing the demands of other commitments and lifestyles.  

 
Carer Shauna is passionate about providing a secure home for children and young people in whatever capacity she can and is grateful to part-time carers with whom she forms a community of support for young people with. 

“Everyone says oh I couldn’t do that, but I really think that more of us could. Maybe in a different capacity to the way I do it. A lot more people could step in even if it was part-time care, or sometimes just helping a carer when they first get a little person. I’ve got wonderful friends who say what do you need? Reach out instead of being afraid that it’s too hard.” 

While there will be a focus on information about part-time care for children and young people in the local community, there are many different types of care options available to suit individual and family circumstances, all of which will be covered. 

My Forever Family NSW Spokesperson, Michelle Stacpoole talks about the significance of the program for the local community and the urgent need for carers.   

“Being a carer for kids is not a one size fits all. There are many ways you can help children thrive. These sessions are an opportunity to ask questions about becoming a carer in an open and relaxed setting, and to chat directly with those who have lived experience as carers. It’s a chance for people to considering becoming carers now to understand the next steps and we also welcome people who are considering this option for the future to come along and find out more.”     

For more information on the information session please go to https://www.eventsforchange.org.au/infosession 
 

You can find more information about My Forever Family NSW at www.myforeverfamily.org.au/  

*Name changed to protect privacy 

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