THEY take children in when family life is at its most difficult, so Barnardos Orange has made sure their carers in turn are cared for.
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The not-for-profit ran a pamper day at its Kite Street office during Carers Week as a token of thanks for its short and long-term foster carers.
One of the carers, who wished to be named only as Fran, has been part of the temporary family care program since November.
With her three children full grown and moved out, Fran wanted to take on the role.
“I have plenty of space and a nice farm and I thought it would be something different,” she said.
“My children were all supportive of doing it, they all come up and it’s always a fun time – it was good for them to see perhaps they had quite a privileged life.”
Fran cares for children whose parents are still going through the court system, also working with the parents to maximise the children’s chances of returning home.
If courts order children be placed into foster care, a permanent home is found.
Fran said the experience, plus the training from Barnardos, had helped her become more patient.
“My children say I’m much calmer – it’s hugely rewarding,” she said.
Barnados needs more carers for its 50 children in Orange, particularly in temporary care – call 1800 663 441.
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