Lanarkshire gran backs calls for more carers, as charity warns fostering is "in crisis"

dailyrecord.co.uk:

A Lanarkshire grandmother is spearheading calls for more people to offer children a safe and loving home, as a leading charity reveals that fostering in Scotland is in crisis.As Barnardo's Scotland highlights research by The Fostering Network that indicates that the number of foster families required currently stands at 500, East Kilbride gran Carole Duffy says she's been fortunate to maintain a relationship with all 10 of the children she's fostered through the charity since 2009.Martin Crewe, director of Barnardo’s Scotland, said: “Fostering in Scotland is in crisis as the numbers of people registered to foster continues to fall year on year.The Lanarkshire Live app is available to download now.

Get all the news from your area – as well as features, entertainment, sport and the latest on Lanarkshire’s recovery from the coronavirus pandemic – straight to your fingertips, 24/7.The free download features the latest breaking news and exclusive stories, and allows you to customise your page to the sections that matter most to you.Head to the App Store and never miss a beat in Lanarkshire - iOS - Android "A shortage of foster carers leaves hundreds of children without a safe and loving home, and that is something we are keen to address. "We strongly believe that any loving person can make a wonderful foster parent to a child in need. "We offer support and training every step of the way and, on average, fostering fees and an allowance of £495 per week per child is available.”Carole Duffy, 59, explained: “When you are a foster carer, to see even the little things can make such a big difference. "To see the children relax, to laugh and to see their confidence grow is special, and it’s all about making them the best that they