Fostering services in the seaside resort of Poole have been praised by Government inspectors.

In a report, presented to Poole Borough Council this week, inspectors highlighted eleven areas of good practice.

They also commended the work of education staff, foster carers and social workers for helping deliver the third best GCSE results in the country for children in care.

Inspectors concluded that "the service has many strengths" and "an impressive group of carers with a wide range of experience and expertise".

Councillor Jane James, executive spokesperson for care, said: "I am proud of this report which identifies Poole Fostering Services as an example of good practice in many key areas.

"I want to thank our hard working foster carers and the team of social services staff who support them, for their tireless support and dedication to children who need our care."

Councillor Bob O'Mahoney, chairman of the care overview & scrutiny committee, added: "We are always looking for more people to become foster carers. I appeal to anyone who would like to make a real difference to a child's life to contact us to find out more about fostering."

He said it was "encouraging" that 89 per cent of carers were satisfied with the authority's support, advice and guidance "which is a reflection of how highly we value our foster carers".

In compiling their report, inspectors looked at case files and talked to staff, carers, councillors and children in care.

Among the strenths they highlight were: