THE growing problems of domestic dysfunction, with drugs, alcohol and family violence often key drivers, has led to demand for the foster care of children doubling in a decade.
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What makes this an even greater problem is that it is happening at a time when fewer people are putting themselves forward to take on the consuming task of being a foster carer.
It is easy to understand why this is so. Many more people are working either full or part-time, they have more commitments and some may wonder how they would cope as a carer.
The problem is nationwide, according to Australian Childhood Foundation spokesman Noel Macnamara.
He yesterday said it was also increasingly likely children would need to remain in care longer than in the past and more may never return to their parents.
The Upper Murray Family Care’s Maria O’Reilly said about 60 North East children were in out-of-home care every night and more than 10 were on a waiting list for long-term homes.
She said the organisation urgently needed at least 30 more carers to cater for the region’s needs.
So if you have ever thought you might be able to give a needy child a secure home, there is no time like the present.