The severe lack of foster parents across Meath and Louth is causing the system to buckle and is a crisis for the large numbers of vulnerable children who need stable and nurturing homes.
That’s according to Aontú Cllr Emer Tóibín who says that with hundreds of children in state care across both counties, there is a need for an urgent campaign to encourage more people to come forward and offer to be foster parents.
She says
“This is a very serious situation. I had a meeting with the Navan based Manager of Foster Care and she informed me that there are 430 children across Meath and Louth in state care which is a phenomenally high number. Coupled with this, there are only 90 foster carers in Meath and 140 in Louth, which is far too low to meet the current demand. The system is buckling.
On foot of this meeting I have requested if Tusla’s Head of Foster Care Services for the region can attend next month’s meeting of Meath County Council in a bid to allow her a greater platform to engage with the public and impress on them the urgency of the situation
While it is becoming harder to attract new foster carers, with so many people working full-time, this should not be seen as a barrier and there are many ways in which people can help. As well as full time fostering, there is also a huge need for Respite Foster Parents which allows people the chance to explore if fostering a child is right for them.
The assessment process typically takes about 16 weeks. If approved, people are carefully matched with a child. There are many supports and flexibilities available on an ongoing basis with Tusla providing support and guidance throughout the fostering journey, including training courses to enhance skills and knowledge.
People need to be at least 25 years of age, have a full driving license, and most importantly be able to provide a stable, nurturing, and loving environment.
Fostering a child into a caring and supportive home is one of the most vital and generous things a person can do. These children need homes, support, and care — and our community needs more people willing to step forward. If you’ve ever considered fostering, now is the time to contact Tusla who are based in the Enterprise Centre, Trim Road, Navan”.
