With around 20 Lancashire children needing homes each week, Lancashire County Council is recruiting new foster carers.

The county council has recently increased the allowances payable to new foster carers so now they can expect to receive between £241 and £415 per week for each child they care for.

People who have considered fostering before but weren't sure they could afford it are advised to come along to an information evening and find out if it could now be a viable option.

The next information evening will take place on:

Wednesday 21 June 2017, 6pm at County Hall, Preston PR1 8XJ.

There is no need to book but please arrive early to avoid disappointment. You will have the opportunity to meet experienced social workers and current carers and ask questions.

County Councillor Phillippa Williamson, lead member for young people at Lancashire County Council said:
"We have increased our allowances to foster carers this year in recognition of their valuable role in providing loving homes for the children in our care. There is also a rising demand for placements with more children and young people coming into the care of the local authority each week.

"We are looking for people who can foster all ages of children, particularly siblings who need to stay together and teenagers. No formal experience or qualifications are needed, all we ask is that you have a spare room available and a desire to make a difference to a local child's life."

A package of support is available 24/7 to help foster carers in their role, including local support groups, their own social worker, a dedicated helpline and flexible training.

If you're unable to come along on the night, call the fostering recruitment team on 0300 123 6723 or visit the website: www.lancashire.gov.uk/fostering