FOSTER CARE IN BELARUS

By JEAN HOLT, FOSTER CARE ADVISER

Latest figures from the Ministry of Education in Minsk, reveal that in 2004, fewer parents were deprived of their parental rights, meaning fewer children are entering institutions.

Two institutions in the Gomel Region are closing down this year and new legislation due out in July will mean that institutions will become transitional places for children rather than somewhere they can expect to spend the rest of their childhood.

According to Galina Rudenkova from the Ministry of Education, the number of families taking children who would otherwise spend their childhood in institutions increased from 500 in 2001 to 1084 in 2004. These families are caring for a total of 2767 children. Galina also said there is a higher standard of professional practice in the Gomel Region than in any other region, thanks to the training organised by CCP over the last 5 years. Gomel leads the way and is passing on their skills and knowledge to professionals in other regions.

There has been a huge cultural shift as people recognise the importance of the emotional needs of children and the limitations of institutional care, along with the acceptance that is the right of every child to be brought up in a loving family.

We must not be complacent however. There is still much to do. Galina is asking us to promote more joint Belarusian/ English training, help in working out standards, assessing if children’s needs at being met within the family and how to act if they are not.

Staff in the large institutions will need training in the practical ways of working to a new philosophy and to change the structures that have been in place for many years.

Children with disabilities also have a right to family life and  work has already begun on trying to change attitudes and look at finding families for these children.

I have no doubt that Gomel region will continue to be proactive and lead the way in bringing about a further cultural shift, provided we continue with training and support.

Jean at Rodni Kut

Brother and sister hoping for a family

Brothers needing a family

Vanya and his new brother