LOCAL people are being urged to consider fostering as part of a new campaign.
Staffordshire County Council is urging residents to "rule themselves in" and not assume caring for youngsters won't be for them.
Among those who have already opened their doors are Debbie and Marc Heemsbergen, from Burntwood.
They have been fostering for 24 years, specialising in short-term care for young children, and are also raising three children under Special Guardianship Orders.
Debbie said she was keen to see others consider fostering. She explained:
"When people hear we're foster carers, they often say, 'I couldn't do that.' But our advice to people is always the same, never rule yourself out until you've had a conversation.
"There are plenty of myths around fostering that put people off, but you don't need to be perfect or have all the answers. The training, support and foster carer community are there to help every step of the way.
"Becoming foster carers is one of the best decisions we've ever made. Seeing a child feel safe, gain confidence and thrive is incredibly rewarding.
"If you've ever thought about fostering, rule yourself in and find out more. You might be surprised by the difference you can make."
The fostering service at the county council is looking to recruit 60 new foster families this year to provide homes for local children and young people.
Cllr Su Beardmore, cabinet member for children and young people, said:
"Every child deserves the chance to grow up in a stable, loving home, and we need more local foster carers to help make that happen.
"Foster carers like Debbie and Marc show that fostering isn't about being extraordinary – it's about opening your home and your heart to a child who needs support.
"Too often people rule themselves out because they think they wouldn't be eligible or capable of fostering. We want people across Staffordshire to rule themselves in, have a conversation with our team and discover what's possible.
"Fostering isn't one size fits all. There are lots of ways to support children and young people, including short-term and long-term fostering, resilience foster care for children moving from residential homes, and supported lodgings for older young people.
"Our friendly fostering team will talk you through the different options and help you understand what might work best for you and your family."
Anyone interested in learning more about fostering can visit the Foster with Staffordshire website or call 0800 169 2061.
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