site.btaPleven Forum Calls for Legislative Changes to Support Foster Parents

A discussion at the Pleven BTA National Press Club Monday highlighted the need for more foster families and legislative changes to make foster care a more stable and sustainable social service. The event was part of the “Foster Me” initiative by the Social Assistance Agency, Ministry of Labour and Social Policy and BTA.

Pleven Regional Governor Ivan Petkov called for legal changes allowing foster parents to sign both civil and employment contracts, giving them the rights and protections provided under labor legislation. He said he would raise the issue with Pleven MPs.

Pleven Deputy Mayor Paulina Kirova said foster care is one of the most important forms of support for children separated from their biological families, but warned that the service lacks stability because it has traditionally operated on a project-based basis.

Social workers and foster-care specialists stressed that foster parents need stronger institutional and professional support, describing foster care as more than a job or social service—it is a commitment that can protect children and transform lives.

Foster parent Snezhana Pankova, who has cared for children for 13 years and welcomed 11 children into her home, spoke about the emotional challenges of separation while emphasizing the fulfillment of helping children move into permanent families. Another foster mother called for additional first-aid training.

The national joint initiative of BTA and SAA, "Foster Me", was launched at the National Press Club of BTA in Sofia. A discussion was held at the end of April in Svishtov. The initiative will include 33 meetings in all BTA press clubs across the country.

"Foster Me" is part of the project "Strengthening the capacity of Social Assistance Agency staff in relation to the modernization of social protection systems" – Component 1, aimed at the development of foster care in Bulgaria and strengthening the capacity of those involved in it: social workers, municipal employees, foster parents and others. The project is funded under the Human Resources Development Programme, co-financed by the European Social Fund Plus.