Foster carers' problems

I recently attended a seminar organised by Appogg regarding children in residential care. I was impressed by the number of people who turned up. As a foster carer this seminar was not really intended for me but since I am taking care of a child who has grown up in residential care I thought I would surely benefit from this experience. I was not disappointed. It was very well organised and informative. Well done to Professor Anderson and Appogg.

As foster carers we face a lot of behavioural problems because the care system in Malta does not give a child the chance to form any kind of attachment with a significant adult. In fact, during the discussions many of these problems were mentioned. One of them is the lack of co-operation from some Church Homes.

We are very lucky in Malta to have dedicated and hard-working social workers, unlike some other countries. It is of utter importance for us, as foster carers, to have the support of a social worker in an emergency situation.

We know that our social workers are doing their best but since the number of foster carers is on the increase, quality service is becoming scarce. 179 service is not enough for us, because in some instances we would badly need the coaching of a professional. This problem means that the fostering team needs more social workers.

It is a shame that the government is dealing with child issues on the same level as waste management and other political issues. Aren't our children more important?

There is so much to be said and questioned about this matter. I think the most effective speech during this seminar was given by the chief executive of Appogg, Joe Gerada. He really challenged us all and I hope that he was of great inspiration to all present.