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For Nowra local Paula, becoming a foster carer was a natural progression, having seen her own mum and dad’s experience of providing care for children in short- and long-term foster care placements for five years.
Ten years later, Paula hasn’t looked back and says it has been one of the most rewarding experiences of her life.
“I took the two-day training course and would urge anyone interested in becoming a foster carer to do the same,” she said. “The course educates people in the realities of being a foster carer, the different types of carer one can choose to be, and the resources available to foster carers in order for them to provide the best possible care for children in need.”
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Paula has two children of her own and initially became a foster carer when she was a single parent: “I have been a respite carer, short-term and long-term foster carer as I just wanted to be there for children who have no one to turn to.”
The key to Paula’s success in building relationships with children who may have trouble trusting others is taking time to get to know them, so they feel comfortable opening up.
“Also setting rules that apply to everyone so that the children learn to understand boundaries and routines has also been a useful tool in order for children to build trust.
Caring for children who have experienced extreme trauma has not always been easy but she says that having a good network has been important.
“My mum has experienced the same challenges and we have a fantastic group of professionals at Life Without Barriers who I rely on including support workers and clinicians,” Paula said.
“Many children in care come to us with very few clothes, toys or basics such as hair combs.
“Some have never been shopping for clothes of their own so when we can give them a little pack with their own new clothes and a couple of toys or games, it absolutely makes their day and hopefully gives them a little confidence.”
To find out more about becoming a foster carer, go to www.lwb.org.au
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