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A new model of fostering in South Tyneside has proved so successful that it is being expanded.

Â鶹ÊÓƵ introduced the Mockingbird model, which is delivered by leading fostering charity The Fostering Network, last September. The model sees a 'constellation' of fostering households set up in a similar structure to that of an extended family, based around the support and relationships that provides. The second constellation was launched this week.

First pioneered in America, Mockingbird model has been shown to be effective in helping foster carers overcome challenges and in improving the lives of foster children by building positive links with other families in the constellation. It also improves the stability of placements with fewer children having to move on to new homes and is helping the Council deliver on its priority of supporting young people in need.

The constellations are led by a hub home foster carer who offers vital peer support and guidance alongside social activities to strengthen relationships and permanence.

Thanks to the community support Mockingbird provides, 17 children in the first constellation have been provided with secure and stable families, and the breakdown of relationships has been avoided, meaning more of the Borough's children can grow up with the stability they deserve. It has also meant that more groups of siblings have been able to stay together.

Civil servant Richard Rattenbury and his wife Becky Hawdon were the first people to take on the role of hub carers in South Tyneside. The couple, who have looked after more than 17 foster children over the past 12 years, were on hand to share their advice with other carers while their home was available for sleepovers for any of the 13 foster children in the six 'satellite' family groups in the constellation.

Richard said: "I think the real advantage of the Mockingbird model is the support we were able to give other foster carers. As a foster carer, it's always good to have other people around who truly understand what you are experiencing. By being hub carers, we have been able to provide a listening ear to both carers and children, almost as an extended family.

"The more positive relationships foster children have, the better their life chances. And the more support foster carers have, the better the chances of successful placements and of keeping siblings together so it's a win-win all round."

The second hub carer will be single carer Dawn Hutchison. Dawn has fostered more than 160 children since she started fostering a quarter of a century ago.

Councillor Adam Ellison, Lead Member for Children, Young People and Families, said: "The Mockingbird model has proven itself to be a game changer here in South Tyneside. The model empowers foster families to support one another, which, in turn, leads to more stable placements for our young people.

"We know that fostering is a hugely rewarding job but it can also be very challenging. The Mockingbird model allows carers and the children they care for to share their experiences and support each other through the difficult times."

Â鶹ÊÓƵ is always keen to hear from people interested in fostering. To find out more about fostering, visit www.southtyneside.gov.uk/fostering or contact the fostering service on 0191 423 8500 or email fostering@southtyneside.gov.uk