County faces shortage of foster carers

The council says temporary carers and weekend help are needed

Northamptonshire officials have begun a drive to recruit more foster carers because of a severe shortage of long-term volunteers.

There are over 600 children being looked after in the county, ranging from newborn babies to teenagers.

The council employs more than 300 foster carers, but said 50 children are still waiting for permanent homes.

Marie Dickie, the council's Cabinet Member for Children, emphasised that people do not need to commit permanently to help out.

She said: "We've got a need for families and individuals who would give a week off to another foster carer, so that they can have a break to go on a family holiday, or to look after children on a Saturday while the carer who looks after them on a permanent basis does something else.

"The most important thing is that you have the emotional space in your life, as well as the physical space in your home."

As part of the national Fostering Fortnight, which began on Monday, the council has organised events to bring information on fostering to supermarkets and shopping centres.