Selfless foster parents have told moving stories of the care they provide for needy children as Hounslow Council launches a major recruitment drive.
This week saw the start of the annual Foster Care Fortnight and the council has set up an ambitious campaign to recruit more foster carers for the 330 children currently in care here.
Existing carers are at the heart of the campaign and will be on hand at information sessions as well as starring in posters and adverts across the borough.
Cllr Paul Lynch, lead member for education and children, said: "Our foster carers are our greatest asset. They provide a safe and welcoming home for children and young people who need it most.
"We always have children and young people who need fostering in the borough, so I strongly encourage anyone who thinks they could offer a safe and welcoming home to get in touch."
Fostering involves meeting the day-to-day needs of children who, for whatever reason, cannot live with their own family. It can be for just a few days, a few months or sometimes until they are ready to live independently.
Advice and support is available for foster carers and a weekly allowance is paid to meet the needs of each child placed.
To find out more about becoming a foster carer visit www.hounslow.gov.uk/fostering or call the council's fostering team on 0800 731 8558.
