Training for foster carers coming to Bendigo

Anglicare and Bendigo and District Aboriginal Co-operative are looking for people to join the three-day training session, which will take place on February 9, 10 and 14.

BDAC home-based care program manager Trina Dalton-Oogjes said more carers were needed because too often children, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal, had to be moved to go into care due to a dearth of carers in their home area.

Mrs Dalton-Oogjes said those who undertook the training did not have to commit to becoming foster carers, but could decide after the training if it was something they wanted to continue.

She also said foster carers did not have to look after a child full-time, and could instead become a respite carer, looking after children for short periods of time.

Anglicare home-based care program manager Lisa Henderson said foster carers were encouraged to begin with the short respite placements, before moving onto longer placements if they felt comfortable.

​Anglicare regional director Tom Hadkiss said people from all backgrounds could make a good carer.

“What we find in our carers is most have a commitment and a passion to provide opportunities for young people to be the best they can be,” Mr Hadkiss said.

Mrs Henderson said the more carers the better, because it would mean children and young people could be better matched to placements according to their needs.

Mrs Dalton-Oogjes, having been a foster carer herself, said it was a rewarding experience.

“I just think it’s the pleasure you see on kids’ faces, and to know you’ve made a difference,” she said.

Anyone interested in the training can contact Mrs Dalton-Oogjes on 5442 4947.