Monday marked the start of Foster Care Fortnight and Cheshire East is using the annual event as a reminder to people that the need for foster carers has never been greater.

There are 534 cared for children in the borough and the reality is, that there may be more children needing our support when lockdown ends.

The theme of this year's campaign is 'This is Fostering'. The main focus is to highlight the real-life achievements of those involved in foster care. As part of Cheshire East's contribution to that cause, using #FCF20, the council is posting a personal story from our foster carers every day on social media over the fortnight to celebrate the exceptional work they do.

Councillor Kathryn Flavell, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for children and families, said: "The need to find loving homes for children is still very great and there is no better time to be asking for the support of new foster carers than during Foster Care Fortnight."

"I know that it is a lot more difficult this year with people's thoughts understandably on the impact of coronavirus but we need to be ready to provide much needed support to children when lockdown can be eased.

"That work has to start now, as the process of becoming a foster carer is very thorough. Anyone interested in this very rewarding career should definitely talk to us today.

"The most important thing about being a foster carer is the person's dedication to providing a loving, safe place for our children to live. We welcome applications from single carers, same sex couples, people with disabilities, all ethnic backgrounds and ages and from all nationalities."

If you would like to know more about becoming a foster carer in Cheshire East then please contact us by email at [email protected] or by calling 01925 444100. You can also visit the Cheshire East to get information about fostering.

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Foster Care Fortnight is run by an organisation called The Fostering Network. To understand more about the work they do and to donate to the cause, please visit The Fostering Network website.