THE ROYAL Borough of Windsor And Maidenhead council are urging residents to consider fostering young vulnerable people, in light of ‘Foster Care Fortnight’.

The council will be holding a virtual information session for residents to attend, with the last opportunity to take part being this Sunday, May 23.

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The hour-long virtual information session will be hosted by Achieving For Children, an organisation providing children’s services for Windsor and Maidenhead, and will be providing the opportunity for potential foster carers to ask questions and find out more.

Councillor Stuart Carroll, cabinet member for adult social care, children’s services, health and mental health, said: “Foster carers are heroes, and I would like to thank all the foster carers in the borough who make an incredible difference to the lives of young people.

“We need new foster carers and welcome residents from all backgrounds to open up their hearts and homes for young people currently in care through no fault of their own.

“Fostering gives children a safe and caring home until a permanent solution is found.

Residents urged to consider fostering a child

Residents urged to consider fostering a child

“If you are interested, attend one of Achieving for Children’s information sessions and find out more this Foster Care Fortnight.”

According to the council, there are currently 81 children in foster placements across the borough.

A spokesman for the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead Council said: “Family Link fostering is when you provide an overnight short break service for children and young people with disabilities.

“There are currently 81 children in foster placements in the borough.

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“Across England there is a staggering 80,000 children in care (March 2020, Department for Education). On average approximately 72 children will enter the care system each day over the next year in the UK.

“The need for foster carers has never been greater, whether it is for emergency or short-term care, to support with respite providing short breaks through the year or offering long-term care. Being a foster carer is not easy and it takes a special kind of person to do it.

“If you are interested, or simply want to find out more, please visit www.afcfostering.org.uk or call 07894 229 788.

“Please register your interest for the sessions by emailing fostering@achievingforchildren.org.uk.”

For more information, visit https://www.rbwm.gov.uk/news/find-out-how-you-can-help-foster-care-fortnight.