insideKENT Magazine Issue 51 - June 2016 | Page 95

Have you ever considered being a
foster carer? What are you waiting for?
Foster Care Associates (FCA) is running a campaign to recruit new
foster carers called ‘what are you waiting for?’, inspired from the
moment in 1994 when co-founder Jan Rees OBE, experienced what
she calls her ‘light-bulb moment’ after reading an article on fostering.
This led to her life-changing decision to care for young people in need.
Jan says: “Foster care is not without its
challenges, which is why the support services
provided by a fostering agency like FCA is so
integral to carers; however, I would also describe
it as the best job in the world! Throughout our
21 years of caring for children and young people
in need in we have never lost sight of what made
us begin our journey – we call it care without
compromise.
“We’re 100% committed to changing the lives
of children and young people in Kent and our
foster carers are at the heart of everything we
do, but we need more. No matter what age you
are, whether you apply as a single person or a
couple, or have your own birth children, as long
as you have a spare room and are able to nurture
and support, you could become a foster carer.
“I hope someone reading this today will find their
lightbulb moment and decide to enquire about
becoming a foster carer – what are you
waiting for?”

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Foster carers with FCA receive frequent visits
and contact from a dedicated and qualified social
worker. Support is also provided through an
education officer, support workers and therapist
to help carers meet the needs of child or young
person. Ongoing training, a financial allowance,
access to carer support groups and organised
family activities are all contributing factors as to
why FCA placements are 22% more stable than
the national average.
We’d really like to hear from anyone considering
fostering, why not visit our office on Eurolink
Business Park, ME13 8GD or for more information
on becoming a foster carer with us call 0800
023 4561 or enquire online at
www.fosterwithfca.co.uk.