Ealing Council is encouraging residents to consider becoming foster carers in the run-up to Foster Care Fortnight (16 – 29 May).

Ealing has approximately 400 looked-after children and young people and there continues to be a great demand for people who can provide caring homes for the borough’s most vulnerable residents.

The council needs carers from all communities, but has a particular shortage of people who are from a White UK background.

They would also like to hear from those who can foster children with disabilities or special needs or provide them with short breaks. And there is a need for carers from all backgrounds who can look after older children, sibling groups and young mothers with babies.

Carers receive dedicated support from the council including mentoring, access to a wide range of training including NVQ qualifications and generous allowance to help meet the needs of those in their care.

Those interested in finding out more will have an opportunity to chat informally with the recruitment team and meet some Ealing foster carers at a special drop-in session at Northolt Leisure Centre on Wednesday 25 May from 3-6pm.

Councillor Patricia Walker, cabinet member for Children and Young People said: "There is a fantastic network of foster carers in the borough and we value the crucial work they do in supporting vulnerable children and young people through a very difficult time in their young lives."

"Fostering is a challenging job, but it is also immensely rewarding. I encourage anyone who thinks they can make a difference to a young life to contact the council’s Fostering and Adoption service."

The council holds monthly information sessions for people who want to find out more about fostering and adoption.

The next one will be held at Ealing Town Hall on Monday 6 June from 7.30- 9.30pm.