Halton Borough Council fostering service has launched its first “Mockingbird constellation” this week.
Led by The Fostering Network, Mockingbird is an award-winning programme based on the concept of extended family. The model nurtures relationships between children, young people and foster families through peer support, social events, sleepovers and support groups.
Donna and Allan are Halton’s first “Hub Home” Foster Carers, who will be at the centre of the Constellation offering support to 8 other “Satellite Families”. Donna and Allan said: “We can’t wait to get stuck in. We’ve already had some great get togethers with the other fostering families in the constellation, so it is really special for us to be the place that children and other carers will come when they need relief, advice or even just a catch up”
The Mockingbird programme has huge flexibility to support children and young people at all stages of their journey through care. Immediate practical support for Foster Carers is one of the many benefits of this programme along with stability for cared for children and young people.
Jamie Pope, Head of Service Children in Care, Care Leavers & Fostering said: “Our Foster Carers can face challenges in their role, so I’m pleased that we are able to introduce more ways they can be supported, it’s a huge benefit for them and the 13 children and young people they care for. We currently have 9 fostering families benefitting from the Mockingbird Programme and hope to grow Halton’s constellations even further in the future.
“We’re all really looking forward to the journey ahead. Our Mockingbird Practice Manager, Julie Reid has linked in with The Fostering Network and other members of our fostering service to ensure a successful set up and launch of the programme, so thank you very much for all your hard work”
Halton Borough Council’s Executive Board Member for Children, Young People and Families, Cllr Tom McInerney, said: “Mockingbird is going to achieve great things for fostering families in Halton. An extra layer of support means that cared for children naturally become part of an extended family and they will be able to build more stable long lasting relationships”
If you’re considering becoming a Foster Carer for your local council, please visit foster4.co.uk or call 03456460098.