Help foster children to achieve their potential

MORE fostering families are needed in East Yorkshire than ever before, new figures have revealed.

The Fostering Network says 800 new families in the Yorkshire and Humber region are wanted this year to look after children in local authority care.

It is up from 750 last year.

On any one day, there are now a record 7,500 children living with foster families in the region.

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East Riding Council says it currently has 140 foster households signed up and about 20 more are needed.

Jon Plant, city children safeguarding manager for Hull City Council, also said: "We are continually recruiting foster carers and are keen to hear from anyone who could offer short breaks or long-term placements.

"We would like a wide range of families to foster children with different needs, such as those from ethnic backgrounds, sibling groups and those with disabilities.

"Last year, we recruited about 70 new families and this year we hope more families will foster, and by doing so, they will help children have the best possible opportunity for a positive future."

Robert Tapsfield, chief executive of the Fostering Network, said despite fostering services attracting more people, the continuing rise of children coming into care means hundreds more are still needed in the region this year alone.

"These children need a stable family life to help them grow and achieve their potential," he said.