A campaign launched to find more foster parents in North Somerset has proved a success.

The "You Can Do It" initiative was initiated last month and 20 people have already contacted North Somerset Council's family placement team asking for further information.

They have now been invited to a meeting at Clevedon Community Centre on December 4, to talk with social workers and experienced foster carers.

Placement manager Sheila Crothers said she was pleased with the initial responses, but was still keen to hear from others who may be willing to consider the idea.

She said: "North Somerset has around 95 foster carers and 150 children are being looked after. But there is always a child needing placement.
"Fostering is a big commitment, but we provide training and a great deal of on-going support to carers.
"Quite often, just talking it through with professionals and someone who is already fostering can provide the reassurance needed.
"In the meantime, the campaign continues, and we look forward to hearing from many more people in the area."

The recruitment drive in North Somerset is being backed with a bus advertising campaign and a new range of posters, postcards and leaflet information.

Carers are needed for a range of fostering schemes, including respite care as well as short and long-term fostering for children who cannot return home.

They are also particularly needed for children with disabilities and youngsters from ethnic minorities. Those wanting to become carers undergo weekly training of two and a half hours each week for eight weeks.

Anyone interested should phone 01275 888 999 or make contact by email at fostering@n-somerset.gov.uk