If you live in or around the Blackpool area and have considered becoming a foster carer we can help you take the next steps. Foster with us is a not-for-profit fostering recruitment hub, that works in collaboration with Blackpool Council and four other local authorities from Lancashire and Cumbria. From the initial query stage, through to approval, Foster with us and Blackpool Council will help you get started in your journey to become a foster carer and start to excel at fostering children and young people from your local community.
Why foster with Blackpool Council
Blackpool Council is a supportive and nurturing local authority to foster with. Offering a range of support and benefits, you will gain training, advice and ongoing mentoring to help you though your fostering journey. You can read more about the allowances and support offer.
Does Blackpool Council need more foster carers?
Absolutely, yes! Throughout the UK and in the Blackpool area it is hard to keep up with the demand for foster carers. That is why, if you are considering fostering in the area, it is a great time to get started and welcome a local child into your home.
Who Foster with us are
Foster with us is a regional fostering hub that is government funded and not-for-profit. We work alongside five local authorities across Lancashire and Cumbria to meet the increasing demand for foster carers. By starting your journey with Foster with us you will actually be working with local authorities in your local area, rather than private organisations who attract profit. This means you will get support and advice directly from the local authority who have responsibility for the child or young person, with training and support in your area rather than miles away from home.
If I live in Blackpool will the children I foster be from the area?
Highly likely yes. Our priority is to keep children in or close to their own community. This helps them stay in touch with family and friends while minimising disruption to their routine. By fostering children in your local area, activities such as travelling to appointments or school will also be easier for you as everything will be in the area you and the child are residing.
Unique challenges for Blackpool with foster carer recruitment
Blackpool has its own set of challenges recruiting foster carers due to the level of tourism in the area. Unlike other local authorities, a high population of Blackpool consists of temporary residents to the area. This means there is a lower percentage of suitable foster homes, due to holiday accommodation, when compared to the wider population or neighbouring areas.
Find out more about fostering with Blackpool Council
To get started simply get in touch with our friendly team using our enquiry form or by calling us on 0300 019 0200. We will then be able to talk you through the assessment process and answer any queries or uncertainties you may have. You can also speak to an experienced foster carer from Blackpool Council to offer a real-life perspective. If you are thinking of fostering, don’t hesitate and get in touch today.