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A new training programme aimed at boosting foster care recruitment and support is being launched in Darlington next month.
The Fostering Pathway to Employment will begin on November 4, delivered by Learning & Skills Darlington for current and prospective foster carers.
Councillor Nick Wallis, cabinet member for children and young people, said: "The newly developed fostering pathway to employment is a fantastic addition to Learning & Skills Darlington’s adult education offer, with learners benefitting from experienced guest speakers, peer mentors, and industry experts as part of the course.
"This is the first time a bespoke course has been designed with existing and potential foster carers in mind.
"And I have no doubt the course will be popular given the vital knowledge, skills, and support it provides for those in the fostering profession or considering becoming a foster carer."
The programme builds the knowledge and confidence needed to support children, young people and families while exploring fostering opportunities.
Participants can gain a recognised Level 1 award in Introduction to Health, Social Care, and Children’s and Young People’s Settings.
Participants will learn about fostering standards, child development, safeguarding, and inclusive support practices.
It also covers communication with families and professionals, online safety, allegations, confidentiality and healthy eating.
The course is free to Darlington residents and open to existing and prospective foster carers.
Anyone who is not already a foster carer must still apply through Foster with North East and complete a fostering assessment, including checks and references.
A spokesperson for Darlington Council said: "This programme is set to provide an excellent foundation to begin a fostering journey.
"The fostering pathway programme is designed to help develop the understanding and confidence needed to support children, young people and families, while exploring opportunities within fostering."
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Peer mentors, guest speakers and industry experts will give participants practical skills and insight.
It also covers autism, learning disabilities and inclusive care, helping foster carers better support the children in their care.
Find course and enrolment details on the Darlington Borough Council website under Courses for Employment.