Cheshire East Council is adopting a new approach and launching a new long-term campaign to attract and recruit more people to become foster carers.

With more than 530 cared for children and young people in Cheshire East there is a need to find homes for children locally.

Launching on today, 'Together for Fostering' aims to increase the number of applications to become a local authority foster carer in Cheshire East.

Councillor Kathryn Flavell, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for children and families, said: "A loving, stable family home environment is something so many of us take for granted. But for many children, this is not the case, and every single day our amazing foster carers, who are ordinary people undertaking an extraordinary role, look after children needing security, happiness and a better quality of life.

"It's not just babies and young children who need foster homes, many older children, sibling groups and teenagers looked after by the local authority would like to live in the sort of family environment a foster home can provide.

"Some people think you need particular or special characteristics and abilities to become a foster carer, and certainly, our foster carers are extra special. But we are looking for ordinary people, from all walks of life, who want to do something extraordinary, and working together with you and the children in your care, we will be there to support you every step of the way.

"So, if you have the time, patience and understanding to care for a child or young person, experience the best rewards imaginable by giving a child a home and consider a new career as a Cheshire East Council foster carer."

If you would like to know more about becoming a foster carer in Cheshire East or would like an information pack, then please visit the Together Fostering website or email [email protected] or call 0300 123 3223.