Bromley foster carers gathered together at an event on Wednesday 18 September to learn more about Bromley’s new fostering initiative, Encompass Therapeutic Fostering.

Joined by councillors and representatives from Bromley’s Council’s executive board and Fostering team, attendees learned all about the new service that aims to provide pathways for children and young people in care whose needs may be more complex to move from residential settings into a family home, where care is therapeutic, specialised, consistent and safe.

Councillor Kate Lymer, Executive Councillor for Children, Education and Families said, “If you have at least three years of fostering experience and a spare room at home you should consider becoming part of an Encompass Family. This initiative of care is inspired by the old adage that ‘it takes a village to raise a child’ and combines the strengths of a supportive family network with regular access to the expertise of our staff and the shared wisdom of fellow experienced carers. Get in touch with our team to start your own journey and find a place in your heart and home to change a life as part of an Encompass Family.”

By creating a family hub network, approved and matched Encompass Families can earn up to £1,000 per week and receive support and respite from their group and team managers, social workers, and even other Encompass Families. Together, their efforts ensure that the child is part of a bespoke family unit that is prepared, properly trained, and supported every step of the way to deliver the strongest foundation of care needed for the child to reach their full potential.

An Encompass Family is supported by:

  • 24-hour support from social workers.
  • Ongoing therapeutic training.
  • Support from Encompass Hub Family.
  • Close working with Bromley’s THRIVE team.
  • Weekly support visits from an Encompass Social Worker, and more…

To learn more about Encompass, register your interest in joining, or to find out when the next online information session is being held, visit: www.bromley.gov.uk/EncompassTherapeuticFostering

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For media enquiries, please contact Liam Scoble in Public Affairs on 020 8313 4688 or email liam.scoble@bromley.gov.uk.

Published: 3rd October 2024