'Annie' star in foster parents appeal
Could you be a foster carer or adoptive parent?
Actress Su Pollard took time out during a recent working visit to the resort, (she was appearing in “Annie” at the Grand Theatre), to back Blackpool Council’s bid to recruit more foster carers and adoptive parents.
She met local super foster carer Sue Mansell who has fostered 27 children in recent years.
Su said: “Can you imagine the joy and pleasure of giving somebody a chance in life. I think even fostering one child is a heck of a commitment and Sue has done it 27 times over. I’m sure you get a lot more back than you put in.”
Sue, who has three children of her own, said: “The rewards I’ve experienced are amazing - it’s so effective, you can make a difference.”
She stressed that anyone considering adoption or fostering will find valuable support is offered by Blackpool Council and other agencies, adding: “There’s a massive, massive network of support that I was never aware of before.”
Blackpool Council’s leader Councillor Simon Blackburn said: “There is an ongoing need for adoptive parents and foster carers who can make a real difference to children’s lives at a crucial time. I’d urge anyone who is interested in finding out more about what’s involved to contact the Council for more information.”
The adoption and fostering teams can be contacted on 01253 477888 for an information pack or visit the Council’s website at www.blackpool.gov.uk/services/a-f/adoption/.
You can also email fostering.adoption@blackpool.gov.uk
* Local families already made a difference. Some 270 children live with 145 foster families in Blackpool, but more families are always needed to provide safe, secure and stimulating homes for babies, children and young people.
* In the North West there are around 450 children currently seeking adoption, including 22 from Blackpool.
* The adoption service is looking for caring people and stresses you don’t have to be married to make a difference. It advises: “If you’re over 21, from a stable background, in good health and feel passionately about helping others, then you could be the perfect person to consider adoption.”
