When Wayne worked for an electricity company, he’d visit lots of different homes to read their meters. In some, he got an up front look at how badly some children are treated.
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“It would break my heart… knowing I couldn’t do anything about it”.
Now aged in his 50s, Wayne is doing something. Along with wife Helen and their adult daughter Erin, he’s been providing foster care for three children aged 3 to 12 since late last year; an arrangement managed by not-for-profit agency Care South.
In Australia today, more than 46,000 children are living in out of home care – mostly because they were removed from their birth families due to abuse or neglect.
Due to a chronic lack of foster carers, some children are missing out on homes all together.
“The number of children living in motel rooms is quite sad… just think of those kids,” Wayne said.
Negative stereotypes about foster children and foster care deter many people from helping out.
But Wayne and Erin say many of their preconceptions were changed when three adorable kids came into their home. The carers are able to bust three myths about foster care.
Myth #1: Foster care children are violent and dangerous
Wayne admits before he became a foster carer, he was worried about wild children knocking holes in his walls.
But he said the new additions to his household have been kind, humble and appreciative.
“They got so much love to give… seeing them smile and laugh is so special. And it’s nice when they say ‘thank you’ when I make them breakfast”.
While the children offer challenges, Erin said, “just because someone’s experience trauma, doesn’t mean they turn out to be violent. I experienced trauma as a child too.”
Myth #2: DOCS interferes with everything
A Fairfax Media survey revealed the biggest deterrent for potential foster carers is not the kids themselves, but concerns about the involvement of NSW Department of Family and Community Services (still known by its old acronym, DOCS).
“Any interaction with a government department is a negative,” Wayne said.
But fortunately for Wayne, they never have to deal with DOCS. Everything is managed through their agency Care South.
Myth #3: Foster carers get no support or training
Wayne and Erin say they’ve been delighted with the support they’ve received from Care South.
“Whenever we need something, I can always give them a call. We’re never alone on this”.
“They also understand if you’re not coping, and if a placement isn’t for you”.
“It’s not just the training, it’s the friendliness of the place that appeals to me. They even make you coffee”.
If you’re interested in becoming a foster carer, please call Alana Rossiter at Care South Griffith for an obligation-free chat on 6962 4583. This is the closest Care South office for Darlington Point residents
