FOSTER AND KINSHIP CARERS ON THE GOLD COAST CELEBRATED

Child Safety Minister Margaret Keech today met with foster and kinship carers from Nerang and the northern Gold Coast area to thank them for providing safe and stable homes to children and young people in their care.

Speaking at a special lunch for the 86 carers attached to the Nerang Child Safety Service Centre (CSSC), Mrs Keech said carers were the backbone of Queensland’s Child Protection system.

” The Department of Child Safety could not do its job without them,” she said.

“I know the work of foster and kinship carers is often difficult, but brings wonderful rewards.

“I am delighted to meet foster and kinship carers from the Gold Coast community and personally thank them for the amazing job they do.

“Child protection is a tremendous responsibility and we value our relationship with carers and community agencies.”

Mrs Keech said the Department of Child Safety worked in partnership with more than 3100 foster and kinship carers across the state to provide safe and happy homes to an estimated 7000 children and young people in care.

“Foster and kinship carers step in when children do not have parents able, or willing, to provide them a safe home,” Mrs Keech said.

“At 31 December 2006 on the Gold Coast there were 223 foster carers providing a home for 511 children and young people in the care of the department.”

Mrs Keech said the department now provided more support to foster and kinship carers through improved training, increased allowances and an after hours help line.

“Community agencies work with the department in recruiting, training and supporting foster and kinship carers, counseling children and giving parents practical skills so they can safely care for their children,” Mrs Keech said.

“The vital input of community agencies and carers in the child protection system is a reminder that child protection is everyone’s business.”

Media contact: Jo Crompton 3224 7081