A new strategy, which the government says will provide more practical support for foster carers, has been unveiled for Foster and Kinship Care Week.
There are over 15,000 foster carers in NSW who open their hearts and homes to vulnerable children. This week recognises their extraordinary contribution and invites more people to consider providing a safe and loving foster home.
The new ‘Out-of-Home Care Carer Strategy’ is the State’s first dedicated strategy and has been developed in consultation with more than 1,000 carers over the past two years.
The Strategy will not only provide more practical support for carers but seeks to empower them as they support the children and young people in their care. This Strategy is the only one of its kind in Australia and marks the government’s next steps to reform the NSW out-of-home care system.
Recent reforms include
- a 20 per cent increase to the Care Allowance – the largest increase in the payment’s history.
- enhanced independent information and advice delivered by Carers for Kids.
- more than doubling the immediate emergency crisis payment to $200 per child.
As part of the Strategy, every out-of-home care provider will develop and publish a specific Carer Support Action Plan. The Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) has published its plan for the next two years, with 45 detailed actions including a boost to carer training and choice.
Minister for Families and Communities Kate Washington said, ‘Every foster carer who opens their heart and home to a vulnerable child deserves to be celebrated and supported.
‘Our nation-leading carer strategy recognises foster carers as critical partners and commits to giving them more respect and support.’
CEO of Carers for Kids NSW Renée Leigh said, ‘Carers have told us clearly what they need to continue providing safe, stable and nurturing homes for children and young people, so it is vital to see their voices and importance reflected in this Strategy.
‘A statewide approach creates an important opportunity for greater consistency in how carers are empowered and included in decisions that affect them and the children and young people in their care.’
Listening
She said ‘Carers for Kids NSW will continue listening to and supporting carers across NSW, while working closely with government and the sector to help ensure these commitments translate into meaningful change in carers’ day-to-day experiences.’
Department of Communities and Justice Secretary Michael Tidball said, ‘Foster and kinship carers are essential partners in helping children and young people grow up safe, connected and supported.
‘We are committed to ensuring carers have access to training, financial assistance and practical support so they can focus on what they do best – caring for children.
‘On behalf of the Department of Communities and Justice, I thank every foster and kinship carer for the remarkable contribution they make to the lives of children and young people across our state.’
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