Wright launches foster care campaign
Former Liverpool captain Mark Wright has joined Foster Care Associates to help launch a new, nationwide campaign to put the spotlight firmly on fostering.
The 50-year-old, a foster carer himself, has been appointed as ambassador for the FCA, the leading foster care agency in the United Kingdom.
In partnership, FCA and Wright have started a programme of initiatives designed to raise awareness of the issue and thereby increase the number of foster carers in the country.
The commencing 'Mark Wright 10k Campaign' will involve further activities such as conferences, discussion panels, forums, live phone-ins and a UK car rally.
Wright said: "As foster carers, my wife and I are passionate about giving disadvantaged children the chance to thrive and lead truly fulfilling lives.
"Working with FCA and in launching the 10k campaign, we are determined to make a difference to the lives of looked-after children, bring about positive change and help improve outcomes for vulnerable youngsters.
"We must look for new and innovative ways to attract foster carers, ensure they are properly trained, supported and guided in their roles.
"I believe that through our campaign, through conversations with the right people and by sharing information, we can further raise the profile of fostering and make a significant contribution to society and the children we care for.
"Fostering is challenging and can often seem a daunting role but with the right support and back-up from professionals, it is also enormously rewarding.
"I'm looking forward to sharing my passion for life as well as giving away some of my personal experiences. I am honoured to be part of an organisation that places children firmly at the centre of what it does.
"For me, the outcomes which FCA delivers demonstrate the fantastic work carried out by its staff and carers, and this is what I intend to build upon."
Wright's work has been backed by Liverpool Football Club, and managing director Ian Ayre added his own comment regarding the new campaign.
He said: "When Mark first told the club about this campaign, he highlighted that one in five homeless people have grown up in children's homes and three quarters of those who have been in care homes have no educational qualifications.
"There is no doubt that the 10k campaign will transform lives. As a former player, Mark is part of the LFC family and we are extremely proud of him and the work he is doing."