FOSTER carers from Dartford and Gravesham received a big pat on the back from Kent County Council (KCC).

A conference to say thank you to the carers and give them extra training was held at Aylesford Priory.

There were workshops in education, health and emotional support, to helping young people in care prepare for adult life.

KCC social services chairman Councillor Keith Ferrin said: “KCC's foster carers provide an essential service, looking after children in the care of KCC.

“We are lucky to have such a dedicated, caring and enthusiastic army of carers.”

KCC foster carers receive 24-hour assistance from social services, support groups and training. They can also receive a bounty payment if they introduce a relative or friend who is later approved as a foster carer.

For more information, call 01474 328664.