More foster carers are being sought in Dorset this Christmas.

According to The Fostering Network, there are 6,140 children in care in the south west and 2,650 fostering households, with many more needed.

Dorset Council has come together with other local authorities in the south west for a Christmas campaign.

Isla, a child living with a foster family in Dorset, said, “Christmas was different because it was a lot more fun. It was lovely to have a nice family like you guys.”

Cllr Andrew Parry, portfolio holder for Children, Education, Skills and Early Help for Dorset Council, “There is a huge need to raise awareness of the need for more foster carers across our region.  This festive campaign will help people to understand that when you foster for your local council you are part of a service that is not for profit and where every penny is spent on providing a good service to the children and their foster carers.

“We are so grateful to all our foster carers, not only at Christmas but all year round. They make a real difference to the lives of children in our county.”

If you are interested in fostering, you need to be aged 21 or over and have a spare bedroom.  Find out more by visiting www.fosterindorset.co.uk or call 01305 225568.

You can also follow the campaign at www.facebook.com/FosterInDorset/