A DROP in session for those thinking about fostering is being held at a Bromsgrove church.

The event is being held this Saturday, July 19, at Bromsgrove Methodist Church in Stratford Road.

The session is aimed at anyone curious about foster caring, or for experienced foster carers who want to know what Worcestershire County Council can offer them.

To successfully foster applicants need is to be over 21 years old, and have a spare room and time. Placements can either be short term or long term, and applicants can specify the age range of children they would like to look after.

At present the authority is looking to recruit foster carers for children and young people 11 to 17 years and carers who are able to take sibling groups that allow brothers and sisters to remain together.

They are looking to place children short term, while decisions are made about their future, but also long term where they can grow up in a family with carers who can meet their needs.

Similarly, the council is looking to raise awareness of kinship carers – such as grandparents, aunties and uncles, who legally look after children in their family if the birth parents are unable to.

During sessions there will the chance to meet with social workers and current foster carers, who can talk about their experiences and who will be willing to answer questions.

Councillor Liz Eyre, the cabinet member for children and families, said: "Finding more people who are able to become foster carers and kinship carers is vitally important to help children and young people grow up in a happy, secure home and have the best possible start in life.

"Lots of people from all walks of life can and do successfully foster. There are no special skills required as you will get all the support and training you need.

" All you need is a caring, loving home to support a child when they need it most and this can and does make a real difference to their future."

The session is being held between 10am and 12.30pm.

For more details visit isfosteringforme.co.uk.