A new recruitment drive for foster carers has been launched in Richmond in west London.

At the moment Richmond upon Thames Council has 55 approved foster carers but the number of children that need foster case can vary anywhere from 70 to 100.

Anyone over the age of 21 can be considered as a foster carer. They will need a spare bedroom and, ideally, one adult in the household will not be in full-time employment outside the home, says the council.

It is looking for foster carers for children of all ages but in particular it is looking for carers who can take on two or more related children, children of school age, teenagers and children with disabilities.

Foster carers are paid a weekly allowance of between £219 and £273 depending on the age of the children or young person they are fostering. Carers also get training and support from the council's adoption and fostering team.

To receive the council's free information pack about fostering call 020 8891 7754 or email children.families@richmond.gov.uk