To whom it may concern,

I was wondering if you could assist me in getting my message out! My name is Jarlath McKee, I am a social worker with Tusla, Child and Family Agency and I have responsibility for recruiting foster carers in the North Dublin, Louth, Meath, Cavan and Monaghan region. 

Foster Parents are at the heart of alternative family care for children. Currently the great majority of children who are in care are with families, some within their own extended family network, but most are with general foster carers. As we all know family is the place for children to grow and mature. However, we are experiencing a significant shortage of carers and as current carers retire, we will struggle to identify new homes for children who require alternative care. We are open to people, married, single young and old, who feel they could provide a loving and caring home for a child, for however long or short.

Fostering is vital and urgent work on behalf of the community. It may be something which either serving or retired members of the emergency services might wish to hear more about.   I am keen to get this urgent request for new Foster Parents into the networks.

Regards

Dr Jarlath Mckee PhD

Principal Social Worker

Regional Fostering Recruitment and Assessment Team