A DROP-IN evening for people considering fostering is being held in Yate next week.

It takes place at South Gloucestershire Council’s Badminton Road offices on Tuesday, February 11 (6.30-8.30pm) and is open to anyone interested in finding out more about fostering.

Staff from the authority’s family placement team will be on hand to discuss what it takes to become a carer and discover what support and training is offered to existing carers.

There will also be an opportunity to speak to existing foster carers and hear about their experiences of fostering.

The event is part of the council’s recruitment drive to find more people willing to foster a child.

South Gloucestershire Council places round 100 children and young people in care each year but only has 80 households on its books to take them in.

It says more places are needed as demand for foster care is growing.

Cllr Ian Blair, chairman of the council’s children and young people committee, said: “We are facing a shortage in the number of foster carers in the area to care for older children and we need more people to come forward and provide what is a vitally important role in a young person’s life.

“Children and young people, including siblings, need stability and someone to care for them, as well as guiding them through an important time in their life.”

He added: “We’re seeking families, couples and individuals from all backgrounds who can welcome often vulnerable children into their homes and bring new opportunities into their lives.

“The important thing is that our carers have the time and patience to care for a young person, child or siblings.”

Call 0800 2061443 or visit www.southglos.gov.uk/fostering for further information.