THERE is a shortage of foster carers in the Bunbury Region and the demand is expected to increase, according to Life Without Barriers project officer Debbie Childs.
Ms Childs said it was important that every person had a good home and a family they knew they belonged to.
“Children need to know they have support and love and they will be safe,” Ms Childs said.
“We have a large shortage of foster carers at the moment and we are looking for people who can offer a stable home and a nurturing environment.
“Carers will be provided excellent training, 24/7 support and financial reimbursement.”
Joy McGlashan is passionate about being a foster carer and loved the challenges it presented, she said.
She became a foster carer more than 15 years ago as a single mother of three.
Ms McGlashan said every child that came through her door she cared for because every child deserved to be loved and nurtured.
She said there were many benefits to being a foster carer and she couldn’t imagine her life without it.
“You have got to be open to all the children and you have to continue to help them,” Ms McGlashan said.
“Children need boundaries though and with the right guidance they can be set on the right path.
“It is hard work but it is very rewarding.”
Ms McGlashan said anyone who had a spare room, an open heart and a stable environment should give foster caring a go.
She became a foster carer to Jessica Budden 14 years ago when she Ms Budden was seven years old.
Ms Budden said she would not have achieved the things she has now if it wasn’t for being cared for by Ms McGlashan.
“I wouldn’t have graduated, got a job or a license if it wasn’t for mum (Joy McGlashan),” Ms Budden said.
“When I walked in the door at seven years old the first thing mum said to me was ‘you are going to be safe and loved here’. It took me a year to get used to it but I knew it was the start of my new life.
“Mum is my guiding angle.”
Ms McGlashan’s previous foster kids come back to visit her at Christmas time because they know the door is always open, she said.
At one point she was caring for nine children, including three of her own, and working full time.
Every applicant has to do their own screening process and are given an extensive amount of information and support to guide them on the right path.
There is are free information evenings on Wednesday, October 21 at 16 Edward Street Bunbury from 5pm to 7pm and Thursday, October 22 at the Bunbury Library from 12pm to 2pm.
