Queensland opens its heart to kids in care

The Bligh Government’s $15 million foster and kinship carer recruitment campaign has delivered over 150 new foster and kinship carers, who are now helping protect Queensland’s at risk children.

Child Safety Minister Margaret Keech announced today the government’s campaign is on target to reach its goal of 500 new carers, with 156 new carers approved as at 11 February.

“I thank Queenslanders for opening their hearts and homes to our most vulnerable children,” Mrs Keech said

“The response has been heart warming but we still need more people to consider becoming a foster or kinship carer.

“Sadly, there are approximately 7000 children in Queensland who cannot live safely at home because they are at risk of abuse or neglect.

“Queensland has around 3500 foster and kinship carers, but more are always needed, even if it’s just to provide a couple of hours support for fulltime carers.”

Mrs Keech said the Bligh Government’s Toward Q2 strategy includes a goal to increase the number of volunteers in Queensland by 50 per cent.

“The Government’s $15 million foster and kinship carer recruitment campaign is delivering on this commitment and I’m urging the people of Queensland to continue supporting this campaign,” she said.

“The campaign funding is being used to streamline the approval process, reduce red tape and improve support networks and services for carers.

“It also funded a three-month campaign of television, radio, web, newspaper and magazine advertising, along with ads on national Indigenous radio and television targeting Indigenous carers for Indigenous children.

“Q2 requires the support of the community. I urge Queenslanders to consider becoming a foster or kinship carer, together we will create a fairer Queensland.”

For more information on becoming a foster or kinship carer, call 1300 550 877 or visit www.childsafety.qld.gov.au.

ENDS

Media Contact: Nadine Eckert: 3235 9236