Fifteen local authorities in Scotland have joined forced in an effort to recruit more foster carers, under the slogan 'search for the hero'.

The radio advertising campaign, which will run until 15 April, is said to be the largest joint fostering initiative ever run in Scotland.

It is supported by the National Foster Care Association, the British Agencies for Adoption and Fostering, the Confederation of Scottish Local Authorities and Care Scotland and will features appeals and interviews with different carers on Scot FM, 96.3 QFM and Wave 102.

Bryan Ritchie, Scottish Manager for NFCA explained: "It is important that we increase 'placement choice' in Scotland and we need between 500 and 600 new foster carers to be able to do this.

"This would allow children to be matched with carers who can offer them specific skills rather than just having to place them where there is a bed."

The campaign is aiming to address shortages of carers for specific groups, namely groups of brothers and sisters, children aged over eight, children needing long-term foster care, children from ethnic minorities and children with disabilities.

One of the participating councils is East Ayreshire whose social work committee chair, Councillor Jane Darnbrough. said: "There tends to be a common misconception amongst potential foster carers that they might not quite be good enough.

"They think that they might be discounted because they are single, or because they don't own their own home and so on.

"The fact is that most foster carers are just 'ordinary' people who like children and just want to help. You don't need a lot of money or equipment or toys, just a nice warm home and a lot of care for the children.

"I would urge anyone who might be interested in fostering to phone in and find out more."

Special confidential phone lines have been set up to provide more information without any obligation. Lines are open from Monday to Friday between 7.30am and 9pm, and Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 6pm. The number to call is 08700 502 502.