Fostering recruitment drive launched to support Stoke-on-Trent teenagers

Stoke-on-Trent City Council has launched a new campaign to recruit specialist foster carers to support local teenagers.

The recruitment drive is part of the council’s Family Pathways programme - an initiative which helps young people move from residential care homes into stable family homes. These teenagers need consistent, full-time support from those who invest in them and can offer stability and compassion.

The council is looking for people who can offer a safe and caring home to a teenager full-time and who have experience of supporting children or young people with all of the challenges of adolescence– especially those who may have experienced trauma and difficult circumstances.

Councillor Sarah Jane Colclough, cabinet member for children’s services at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “We’re asking people to consider becoming a Family Pathways foster carer. This is a specialist role. We know it can be challenging, but with the right support it can also be incredibly rewarding.

“There are young people in Stoke-on-Trent who just need someone to believe in them and offer them stability and support. If you’ve got a spare bedroom, can provide full-time care and have a lot of support to offer, you could make a real difference in a young person’s life.”

Foster carers will receive:

• A competitive weekly professional fee
• An allowance based on the child’s age
• 20 days of paid holiday
• Specialist training
• Ongoing support from a dedicated keyworker and peer support groups

The Family Pathways programme is designed to give teenagers a sense of belonging, consistency and hope for the future. It focuses on helping young people build strong relationships, develop life skills and work towards independence.

To find our more go to: https://fostering.stoke.gov.uk/ or call 01782 234555.