FOSTER carers who can offer safe and secure homes for vulnerable children are wanted on the Isle of Wight.

The Isle of Wight Council’s fostering team has organised a host of drop-in events for people to learn more about the role, as part of the national campaign, Foster Care Fortnight.

Steve Crocker, director of children’s services, said: “We appreciate the remarkable work our current foster carers do, looking after vulnerable children who come into their care needing a safe, stable home to feel secure and happy. We’re looking for more carers to join our exceptional team, as there are still more children who need an Island foster family.

“We’re keen to talk to anyone with the right skills and home environment which could make a difference to a vulnerable child’s life. Foster carers can come from all backgrounds and bring a wide range of life and care experiences. There’s comprehensive training and support to help develop skills and meet the needs of children in care.”

There are a number of drop-in events for anyone who is interested. They are taking place tomorrow ( May 16) 12pm to 2.30pm at Tesco, Ryde and 3pm to 5pm at Ryde Library; May 17, 11am to 1pm at Lord Louis Library, Newport; May 18, 10am to 12pm at The Heights, Sandown; May 21, 10am to 12pm at Freshwater Library and May 24, 10am to 12pm at West Wight Sports and Community Centre, Freshwater.

Useful information about eligibility to become a foster carer:

You must be at least 21 years old, have a spare bedroom big enough for a young person to live in, be a full-time resident in the UK and be flexible, caring and capable of providing a safe and secure environment.

You must also have the time available to dedicate to the child/children in your care. Carers can be single but they will need to demonstrate a network of support. Carers do not have to own their own home but will need to demonstrate stability. Formal qualifications are not required – full training will be offered.

Additional work can be combined with fostering, depending on circumstances of the carer and child. The LGBT+ community is fully supported.

For more information, visit https://www.iwight.com/iwforms/form.aspx?k=Fostering