Foster carers celebrated at town hall

Shetland Islands Council has celebrated the contribution of local foster carers at a recent reception in Lerwick Town Hall.

Around 10 foster families from across Shetland attended the event, where SIC convener Malcolm Bell praised them for the care and safety that they have provided to children and young people over the years.

Foster carers provide a temporary or permanent home for vulnerable children, where they will have security and support in a family environment. Some families in Shetland have been foster caring for over 20 years and may have cared for children of all ages, from babies to teenagers.

Social workers from the council’s family placement team work closely with carers to ensure the best possible outcomes for fostered children.

Mr Bell said: “Shetland’s foster carers show huge compassion towards some of our most vulnerable children and young people.

“Foster carers are an important part of a young person’s life, offering stability and care during their childhood and adolescence.

“On behalf of the council and the wider Shetland community, I’d like to thank our them for their invaluable commitment to our young people and their future.

“We still need more foster carers and I’d encourage anyone who may be interested to get in touch with our family placement team.”

More information on the work of foster carers and how to become a foster carer in Shetland can be found at www.shetland.gov.uk/childrens_resources/fostering.asp.