200 new fosterers needed

On any one day, there is now a record 1,950 children living with foster families in Northern Ireland, with hundreds more coming in and out of care throughout the year.

Margaret Kelly, director of the Fostering Network Northern Ireland, said: “Despite fostering services attracting more people to become foster carers, the continuing rise of children coming into care means hundreds more are still needed.

“These children need a stable family life to help them grow and achieve their potential. By becoming a foster carer people can help them have the best possible opportunity for a positive future, to do well at school and be successful in later life.

“Fostering services are looking for people from all walks of life to become foster carers, of all ages, and from single people to large families. What matters is that they have a desire to work with children and the right skills.”

To find out more about becoming a foster carer people should contact their local fostering service. They can also visit www.couldyoufoster.org.uk or call 028 9070 5056