Changing perceptions of foster caring
News
The urgent need for foster carers was highlighted by Centacare Catholic Community Services during national Child Protection Week (September 7-13).
A new advertising campaign, which includes videos aimed at shifting perceptions of foster caring, was launched at a Child Protection Week morning tea hosted by Centacare at Seaton.
Danielle Lentini from the Foster Care program said with more than 4890 children currently in care across South Australia, the need for foster carers has never been greater.
The advertising campaign aims to break down misunderstandings about foster caring and promote the benefits of reunification.
“Many people believe they don’t fit the mould to be carers, assuming they need to be in a relationship, own a home, or meet some idealised family structure,” Danielle said.
“There’s a misconception that becoming a foster carer is overly complex filled with several hoops to jump through, when in reality it’s more accessible than many assume.
“For example, one carer initially thought fostering wouldn’t suit their lifestyle because they love to travel. But after speaking with Centacare, they learned it was possible to balance both. Last year, they gave the children in their care the amazing experience of travelling overseas together.”
Through two new video ads – The Feeling is Mutual and The Swing – the campaign captures the emotional journey of foster care from both the child’s and the carer’s perspective.
About 90 guests from across South Australia’s child protection, foster care and family support sector were given a sneak preview of the ads at the morning tea on September 7.
This followed a moving address by key speaker Shona Reid, the Guardian for Children and Young People in Care and a panel discussion with Centacare staff on the Child Protection Week theme of ‘Every Conversation Matters; Shifting Conversation to Action’.
Ms Reid said last year her office had 1500 direct contacts with children and young people.
“That’s 1500 acts of bravery, 1500 moments of trust, 1500 chances for us to do better,” she said.
“Think about what it takes for a child in care, or a young person in detention, to speak at all.
“It takes courage, because so often they have learnt that adults don’t listen, or worse, that speaking brings punishment.
“It takes risk, because their words might upset someone in power, and they know how fragile their place in the world can feel.
“It takes hope, that maybe this time someone will not just hear, but act.”
Ms Reid shared a letter from an eight-year-old child in care highlighting the importance of listening and responding (left).
Meanwhile, Centacare’s Foster Care Program – Reunification Model has been recognised with the Outstanding Service Award – Sector Development at the 2025 South Australian Child Protection and Family Support Awards.
Now in its fifth year, the awards recognise individuals and organisations who go above and beyond to create safe and nurturing environments for children and young people.
Held on September 6 – just ahead of National Child Protection Week – the awards brought together more than 500 people from across government and non-government sectors, with many more watching online via the livestream.
Amalie Mannik, executive manager – Children’s Services Unit said the reunification model was a “one-of-a-kind” program which supported more than 130 South Australian children to safely return to their families. S
“It’s a truly special program, grounded in hope – hope that families can heal, and that with the right support, children can return home safely. We’re honoured by this recognition and deeply grateful to the carers who make this work possible every day.”
Diana Allwood, senior assessment officer with Centacare Foster Care, was recognised as a finalist for the Minister for Child Protection Lifetime Achievement Award. With more than four decades of dedication to child protection, Diana has made an extraordinary difference in the lives of children, young people and families across South Australia.
The awards are a partnership between the Department for Child Protection SA and National Association for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect.
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