Published Tuesday, 13 March, 2007 at 01:30 PM
Minister for Child Safety
The Honourable Desley Boyle
Kooralbyn foster carers recognised for excellence
A Kooralbyn 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 Kooralbyn’s Kathy and Doug Prior at a ceremony at Parliament House as part of Foster and Kinship Care Week celebrations.
“These carers do a remarkable job caring for two children who have medical conditions,” Ms Boyle said.
“They have looked after these children since they were born in 1999 and always put them first.
“They have gone out of their way to learn about their medical condition and ways to help them.”
Mr and Mrs Prior 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 1050 children in care in the Logan and Brisbane West zone and about 460 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
Note: Mr and Mrs Prior are available for media interviews.
Media contact: 3224 7477
13 March 2007
Child Safety Minister Desley Boyle today presented Foster Care Excellence Awards to Kooralbyn’s Kathy and Doug Prior at a ceremony at Parliament House as part of Foster and Kinship Care Week celebrations.
“These carers do a remarkable job caring for two children who have medical conditions,” Ms Boyle said.
“They have looked after these children since they were born in 1999 and always put them first.
“They have gone out of their way to learn about their medical condition and ways to help them.”
Mr and Mrs Prior 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 1050 children in care in the Logan and Brisbane West zone and about 460 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
Note: Mr and Mrs Prior are available for media interviews.
Media contact: 3224 7477
13 March 2007