Derbyshire County Council calls on new foster carers to come forward

The authority – which currently looks after around 670 children – is running adverts throughout the day and evening on ITV1 Central and ITV Yorkshire Belmont.

The adverts, which will run for two weeks from Thursday (9th January) will appeal for people to consider playing a part in a young person’s future by fostering or adopting.

The adverts feature children talking about their future ambitions, with the tagline “You can help them get there”.

There are already around 420 foster carers providing stable and loving homes for children throughout Derbyshire for the county council.

But more are needed to replace people who are retiring or moving out of the county.

Having a constant supply of carers means that short and long-term care, and adoptive homes, can be offered for children anywhere in Derbyshire.

Coun Kevin Gillott, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: “Caring for children is one of our most important responsibilities and we’re always looking for foster carers and adoptive parents so we can match youngsters to the right homes.

“Being a parent is one of the hardest jobs you can do but it is also one of the most rewarding, which is why many of our foster carers work with us for decades.

“We offer generous rates and allowances and back carers all the way with support from social workers and other experienced foster parents in our team.

“I hope these adverts will attract more people to come forward to foster or adopt.”

Anyone interested in fostering or adoption can Call Derbyshire on the new Freephone number 0800 083 7744 or visit www.derbyshire.gov.uk/adoptionandfostering