It's Foster Care Fortnight and Cumbria County Council is launching a fresh drive for foster families.
The authority already has 230 homes who take in children, young people or siblings - but it says it needs more.
Members of the public can find out more about fostering and whether it could be right for them at www.cumbria.gov.uk/fostering/ or by calling 0303 333 1216. Members of the public considering fostering are also invited to attend a drop-in session, council staff and carers at these sessions are on hand to answer any questions about fostering or adoption.
Dates:
- Carlisle (Tullie House, Castle Street on Saturday 21 May 2016 at 10am to 2pm)
- Workington (Conference Room, New Oxford Street on Thursday 26 May 2016 at 5pm to 7pm)
- Kendal (Committee Room 1, County Offices, Thursday 2 June 2016 at 10am to 2pm)
- Penrith (Penrith Library on Tuesday 7 June 2016 at 5pm to 7pm)
- Barrow (Forum 28, Duke Street on Saturday 11 June at 10am to 2pm)
Cllr Anne Burns, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said: “Every year around 12 per cent of foster carers leave the service due to retirement so there is a constant need to recruit new foster carers. Together with the high number of children who need care, this means we are calling on local people to come forward and find out if being a foster carer could be right for them.”
“We often find that our current foster carers are the best advert for fostering. If you’re considering fostering follow us on Facebook and Twitter throughout the fortnight or come to a drop-in session and be inspired to make it your time to foster.”