Foster Care Fortnight, which runs until 24 May will not only celebrate the work of foster carers, it will highlight the need for more people to come forward.

Dorset Council’s fostering team will be answering questions during online drop-in sessions, carrying out live interviews, highlighting the achievements of Dorset’s foster carers and running competitions on social media.

Cllr Andrew Parry, Dorset Council Portfolio Holder for Children, Education and Early Help, said, “We urgently need more foster carers to look after children of all ages.

“A lot of people think fostering isn’t for them, they may worry that they are too old or don’t fit a certain stereotype. We want to get the message across that most people can foster, we want to hear from people who are retired, LGBTQ+, single or have no childcare experience. Please don’t rule yourself out; all you need is love, energy and a spare room.

“Visit fosterindorset.com to find out more or search for #fosteringpays on social media.”