An URGENT appeal has been launched to find more foster families.

Gloucestershire County Council is looking to get more people to sign up as foster carers, with children sometimes separated from siblings or made to move far away from where they live.

There are currently over 840 children living with almost 240 foster families in the county, but the number of children coming into care is continually rising.

Councillor Stephen Davies, cabinet member for children’s safeguarding and early years, said: “More people are urgently needed to come forward to foster to make sure our children can stay local and be cared for in their community.

“If you have space in your heart and your home, with a desire to make a difference in a child’s life, please get in touch.”

"Children in care come from all backgrounds, faiths and cultures and we are actively seeking foster carers from all communities."

“We appreciate everything our foster carers do for children in care, and we can’t thank them enough. By supporting each other and working together as a team, our fostering community makes sure that our children can grow up locally, in a safe and loving environment, to reach their full potential.”

The issue is being highlighted during Foster Care Fortnight, the Fostering Network charity’s annual campaign which lasts from May 9 to 22.

Children require foster families for a variety of reasons including illness, domestic violence, drug abuse, and neglect.

The County Council is calling for families, couples, and individuals to get in touch to chat about potentially becoming a foster family whether that be on a short-term or more permanent basis.

Families who can support siblings are particularly welcomed as well as any homes which minimise disruption by allowing the child to stay in their school and near to friends and other family members.

Assessment, training and extensive ongoing support is available to all foster carers.

For more information visit www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/fostering or call 01242 532654.