MEMBERS of local foster families cheered on York City Knights’ at their last league game of the season, which gave youngsters in care a chance to meet some of their siblings.
Twenty children and young people, their foster carers and other children and young people in the families, took their seats for the clash with Newcastle Thunder at Bootham Crescent on Sunday.
It was an opportunity for the children and young people to meet some of their siblings as well as meet others in care.
Kev Lumley, foster carer, said: “I went along with the young person who my wife and I foster. He really looked forward to it and so did we. Sport is something that gives you common ground and gets you talking.
“Lots of positives come out of events like these for foster carers: our lad met his brother there and, even though Newcastle won by two points, I wouldn’t have missed it.”
The Lumleys have been fostering for 15 years, usually taking long-term placements. Going to the match is part of ongoing opportunities foster carers have to meet other carers in the city, brush up long-standing skills and learn new ones. They are also planning to go along with other families to a fun coaching session which the Knights will be running, again for foster carers, at their newly-developed Haxby Road Sports Park.
Neil Gulliver, Knights Foundation Manager, said: “When we heard that City of York Council’s children in care and fostering team were interested in learning more about rugby league and coming to watch the Knights in action, we were more than happy to help out in any way we could. Foster caring is vitally important.”
Cllr Stuart Rawlings, executive member for education, children and young people at City of York Council, said: “Fun activities like this which the Knights have generously provided, are amongst the high-quality support we give our valued foster carers and the opportunities we offer our children and young people in care.” If you think you could foster and are interested in finding out more phone 01904 555333, or go to www.york.gov.uk/fostering.
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