The Foundation for Social Welfare Services (FSWS) has launched a new national campaign encouraging more people and families to become foster carers. The initiative, described as a mission that offers “security, love and stability” during a crucial stage in a child’s development, aims to raise awareness and inspire commitment toward fostering.
The campaign was launched on Wednesday morning during a conference featuring testimonies from current foster carers, including those who temporarily cared for children while parents underwent treatment.
Minister for Social Policy and Children’s Rights Michael Falzon emphasised the government’s commitment to making fostering and adoption easier through legislative reforms and financial support. “From next year, we will strengthen the fostering allowance, which will rise to €6,760 per year. At the same time, we will extend parental leave rights to foster carers, including self-employed parents,” he said.
FSWS Chief Executive Alfred Grixti noted that there are currently 230 children in foster care, with others still waiting for families. Director for Alternative Care Remenda Grech highlighted the need for more foster carers, assuring that each receives 24/7 support and trauma-informed training. The event also featured the launch of the song “Naf Min Jien”, written by paediatrician Dr Kevin Borg.
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Photos: Edited from DOI
