Foster and kinship carers acknowledged across Queensland

Foster and kinship carers around the state are being recognised for their hard work and dedication as Queensland celebrates Foster and Kinship Carer Week. 

Minister for Children, Leanne Linard MP said Foster and Kinship Carer Week, which starts today and runs until 7 May, is an opportunity to thank the more than 5,900 foster and kinship carers across the state.

“This is an opportunity to thank our carers for their generosity and commitment to caring for some of Queensland’s most vulnerable children and young people,” she said.

“Carers provide a loving, stable home for children who can no longer live safely at home with their own families.

“Without them, our response to some of the state’s most vulnerable children and young people would simply not be possible.

“It’s only right we take the opportunity to recognise these everyday heroes and their extraordinary efforts in opening their hearts and homes. Carers are dedicated and passionate and make a positive impact on children in need of support.” 

Ms Linard said it was wonderful to see that for the past 12 months (as at 30 September 2021) more than 1,580 carer families had stepped up to become carers for the first time.

“This is a great result and we would encourage anyone considering foster care to come forward and find out more about what it involves,” she said.

Ms Linard said the Queensland Government had planned a range of activities as part of Foster and Kinship Carer Week to thank and recognise the contribution of carers.

More information on the week, including an online events calendar for carers and ‘day in the life of a carer’ blogs can be found at www.qld.gov.au/fosterkinshipcarerweek. 

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Media contact: Catherine Baker, Senior Media Advisor, tel: 0498 844 783