Published Tuesday, 13 March, 2007 at 01:30 PM
Minister for Child Safety
The Honourable Desley Boyle
Roma foster carers recognised for excellence
A Roma 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 Wendy and Yanto Hall at a ceremony at Parliament House as part of Foster and Kinship Care Week celebrations.
“These carers have welcomed many children into their home over the past eight years, including several with disabilities and challenging behaviours,” Ms Boyle said.
“They have travelled long distances to take children to see doctors or specialists.
“They look after children in emergencies and for longer periods and provide training and support to new carers.”
Mr and Mrs Hall 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 1000 children in care in the Ipswich and Western zone and about 450 foster carers.
“Foster carers 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 Wendy and Yanto Hall at a ceremony at Parliament House as part of Foster and Kinship Care Week celebrations.
“These carers have welcomed many children into their home over the past eight years, including several with disabilities and challenging behaviours,” Ms Boyle said.
“They have travelled long distances to take children to see doctors or specialists.
“They look after children in emergencies and for longer periods and provide training and support to new carers.”
Mr and Mrs Hall 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 1000 children in care in the Ipswich and Western zone and about 450 foster carers.
“Foster carers 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