Published Tuesday, 13 March, 2007 at 01:30 PM
Minister for Child Safety
The Honourable Desley Boyle
Townsville foster carers recognised for excellence
A Townsville couple have been recognised at a state-wide awards ceremony for making a real difference to the foster children in their care.
Child Safety Minister Desley Boyle today presented Foster Care Excellence Awards to Annandale’s Jodie and Tony Baird at a ceremony at Parliament House as part of Foster and Kinship Care Week celebrations.
“These carers have been fostering for six years and have cared for a number of children with moderate or complex needs,” Ms Boyle said.
“They provide mentoring and support to other foster families in the area and work with the children’s natural families, Department of Child Safety, the foster agency to support the children.”
Mr and Mrs Baird are among seven foster families – one from each of the Department of Child Safety’s zones – who were selected for special recognition.
Ms Boyle said there were more than 640 children in care in North Queensland and about 220 foster carers.
“Foster carers in North Queensland do a terrific job, but there is no doubt that we need more of them,” she said.
“A special after-hours phone helpline is being established so foster carers can get advice and support after Child Safety Service Centres have shut for the day,” she said.
“We have also increased fortnightly allowances to help cover the costs of caring for children and these range from $370-$434, depending on the age of the child.”
People interested in learning more about what is involved in becoming a foster carer can call the Department of Child Safety on 1300 550 877 or visit the department’s website: www.childsafety.qld.gov.au.
Foster and Kinship Care Week runs from March 11-18.
Ends
Media contact: 3224 7477
13 March 2007
Child Safety Minister Desley Boyle today presented Foster Care Excellence Awards to Annandale’s Jodie and Tony Baird at a ceremony at Parliament House as part of Foster and Kinship Care Week celebrations.
“These carers have been fostering for six years and have cared for a number of children with moderate or complex needs,” Ms Boyle said.
“They provide mentoring and support to other foster families in the area and work with the children’s natural families, Department of Child Safety, the foster agency to support the children.”
Mr and Mrs Baird are among seven foster families – one from each of the Department of Child Safety’s zones – who were selected for special recognition.
Ms Boyle said there were more than 640 children in care in North Queensland and about 220 foster carers.
“Foster carers in North Queensland do a terrific job, but there is no doubt that we need more of them,” she said.
“A special after-hours phone helpline is being established so foster carers can get advice and support after Child Safety Service Centres have shut for the day,” she said.
“We have also increased fortnightly allowances to help cover the costs of caring for children and these range from $370-$434, depending on the age of the child.”
People interested in learning more about what is involved in becoming a foster carer can call the Department of Child Safety on 1300 550 877 or visit the department’s website: www.childsafety.qld.gov.au.
Foster and Kinship Care Week runs from March 11-18.
Ends
Media contact: 3224 7477
13 March 2007