EAST Lothian Council has launched an appeal for more foster carers in the county.

The authority’s fostering team is looking for residents to home children and young people up to the age of 21.

Councillor Shamin Akhtar, cabinet member for education and children’s services, said: “There are so many reasons why a child or young people may need foster care.

“When that happens, we want to make sure there are enough foster carers right here in East Lothian so that those placements can happen within our area.

“This lessens the disruption for the children and young people, and lets them know that they are cared for and valued by our whole community.”

As part of its autumn recruitment drive, the council’s website has been updated to share experiences and interviews from foster carers and those who have experienced foster care. Foster carers come from a variety of backgrounds, and relationship or employment status, house type or tenure are not barriers to becoming a foster carer.

The team looks for people with the ability to provide structure and build positive relationships, and the desire to provide young people with a safe space.

Ms Akhtar added: “Our fostering team are committed to helping people succeed in the role and our wider fostering family plays a big part in this.

“Our team are on hand throughout the process from the initial enquiry to first foster placement and beyond.

“I hope that people will be inspired by hearing the experiences of our foster carers and will consider this worthwhile role for themselves.”

To find out more, visit eastlothian.gov.uk/fostering or call 01620 827643.