Launched during the recent Fostering Fortnight activities, North East Lincolnshire Council’s ‘Foster Friendly business’ scheme is gaining ground across the borough, as more organisations and businesses commit to supporting foster carers.
The initiative encourages businesses and organisations across the area to support employees who are also foster carers, or those who may choose to become foster carers in the future. Foster Friendly businesses taking part in the scheme will offer benefits to staff who are foster carers, including additional annual leave for appointments and training.
Navigo chief executive Simon Beeton said: “We are absolutely delighted to become an official Foster Friendly organisation.
“As a leading provider of mental health services, we see every day the impact and difference a stable home can have on the lives of the people we serve. We are committed to supporting foster carers as it is important that this vital role is recognised and encouraged.”
Locally and nationally there is a great shortage of foster carers, and it is organisations and businesses supporting people who provide homes for foster children that could help to tip the balance across North East Lincolnshire.
North East Lincolnshire Council’s Children’s Services Director, Ann-Marie Matson, welcomed the news: “It is fantastic that Navigo has chosen to sign up to the ‘Foster Friendly’ scheme, joining North East Lincolnshire Council, Toll Bar Academy, and Grimsby Town Football Club as we all make a commitment together to support foster carers, and in turn foster children who desperately need welcoming and safe homes to live in.
“Foster carers provide homes for vulnerable children and young people, and many of these young people need support whilst they adjust to their new environments. This can require additional help from foster carers, and those with jobs may find it difficult if employers are unaware of the additional care young people may need during these traumatic times.
“Becoming part of the Foster Friendly scheme gives employers an insight into the needs of foster carer employees and provides them with the tools they require to support them and the foster children in their homes.
“We welcome Navigo to the scheme and look forward to others across the borough joining us in the future.”
Image credit: North East Lincolnshire Council
