New fostering information sessions announced

The online sessions give people who have been thinking about becoming a foster carer the opportunity to find out more

Rochdale Borough Council’s fostering team is running monthly online information sessions for people who are interested in finding out more about the rewarding role of fostering.

The short information sessions give people who have been thinking about becoming a foster carer the opportunity to ask questions about the different types of fostering available, the application process and also speak to some of the council’s foster carers.

Councillor Kieran Heakin, cabinet member for getting a good start, said: “Our information sessions have always been a really great way for people to find out more about fostering and take their first step with us on their fostering journey. If you’ve been thinking about fostering then I’d really encourage you to join us at one of these sessions. They’re friendly and informal and you get the chance to speak to some of our foster carers and ask them any questions you may have on the role.”

With the continued social distancing measures and venue closures in place the online sessions have provided a useful way of running information sessions for those interested in fostering.

Trish Mullins, local foster carer, said: “I’ve taken part in many of these sessions and I really enjoy sharing my fostering experience with others and being there for the start of their fostering journey. I’m looking forward to meeting more people on these new sessions. Fostering is such a rewarding role so if you’ve ever considered it then I’d really encourage you to contact Rochdale Borough Council.”

Online sessions are being held on the first Thursday of every month throughout 2021. The dates for the next three sessions are:

• Thursday 1 April 6pm – 7.30pm
• Thursday 6 May 6pm – 7.30pm
• Thursday 3 June 6pm – 7.30pm

The sessions are held using Zoom which can be accessed via an internet browser, or by downloading the free Zoom app beforehand.

If you are interested in taking part, please email: foster@rochdale.gov.uk and you will be sent joining instructions.

Alternatively, please call 0300 303 1000 for a friendly chat about fostering.

You can find out more about fostering, including reading stories from many of the council’s current carers, here rochdale.gov.uk/fostering