IT’S the little moments such as watching a child sleep after he has run you off your feet that make caring worthwhile for Genevieve and John.
“All the challenges from the day melt away at that moment,” Genevieve says.
The couple, from a western suburb, are experienced foster and permanent carers with Anglicare Victoria.
The agency stipulates that the couple not reveal their surname to protect the privacy of the children in their care.
Anglicare needs more people like them willing to take on a child on a more permanent basis.
It says there are 294 children who have got a “permanent care case plan but not a permanent care order”. More than 200 are still waiting for a placement.
Genevieve says while there are challenges as a carer, the rewards are great. “I believe we get as much out of it as the children we care for.”
Highlights include seeing positive changes in a child’s development and, in some cases, seeing them reunited with their biological family.
Genevieve says that seeing a child’s reaction when they find out they’ve been given a permanent care place can be a joyous occasion.
“It’s like a weight being lifted. It’s an extra step, [from foster care] I suppose, where the children really feel connected and part of a family, which is what they desperately need.”
And she says permanent carers do have a say over the child who comes into their home to ensure they can fit in with the family.
The couple say seeing their own children interact with those they have cared for over the years has been a rewarding experience.
On December 6, Anglicare will run an information session for anyone wanting to know more about becoming a permanent carer.
“The qualities that we look for in carers are openness, flexibility, warmth, empathy and understanding,” Anglicare team leader Keren Barnett says.
“They need to understand the needs of a traumatised or neglected child, the grief of the birth parents, the need for access with the birth family, and be able to work with agencies and medical professionals.”
Permanent carers undertake several days’ training and undergo a social work assessment before being matched with a child.
For details, call Anglicare Victoria at the Yarraville office on 9396 7400.
