Could you help an at-risk child in Wiltshire?
Vulnerable children in Wiltshire are being put at even greater risk by Covid-19, and there is an even greater need for foster carers during this pandemic.
That's the message being delivered by Home for Good, a children's charity dedicated to finding a foster or adoption home for every child who needs one.
Clare Walker, Regional Manager for Home for Good in the South West said:
"Home for Good has been made aware by our friends in Wiltshire Council’s fostering team that they are being put under increasing pressure by Covid-19.
"Before the start of the Covid-19 crisis, Wiltshire Council had approaching 500 children in care and needed to recruit at least 100 more foster families. In some areas of the county there are children who need to be kept safe but no foster carers at all.
"The current crisis has only increased their challenge.
"The Covid-19 pandemic has been challenging for all of us, and some have experienced profound loss. But alongside the news of new cases, second peaks, tests and vaccines, there are also shocking headlines of domestic violence cases rising by 20%, of more than 2 million children living in hugely vulnerable situations exacerbated by lockdown, and of just 5% of children known to be at risk attending school.
"Wiltshire and other local authorities are reporting to Home for Good that safeguarding referrals are significantly down, which is hugely concerning. All are preparing for a significant rise in referrals as lockdown ends and all children return to school.
"This will put huge pressure on children’s services and more foster homes will be needed.
"We have a window to act now so that we are ready."
There is more information here.
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