AN URGENT appeal for foster carers has been launched after East Lothian Council was hit with a shortage in the run-up to Christmas.

The council is appealing to people to come forward to help provide homes for children and young people aged 16 and under in the county.

The local authority says that recent retirements by fosterers have added pressure to the service, with youngsters facing having to be moved out of the county and away from familiar settings as the festive season approaches.

And it is urging anyone who can to step in and help youngsters who need a place to stay within their network of relatives, friends and school during what can be a challenging time.

Councillor Fiona Dugdale, cabinet member for education and children’s services, appealed to people to consider taking on the vital role.

She said: “It’s a rewarding role and full support and training is provided to help you succeed.

“Our foster carers provide amazing support to children and young people when they really need it.

“Entering foster care can be a confusing and challenging time for our children and young people, so it’s important that we do all that we can to minimise the upheaval for them.

“Having East Lothian-based foster carers means that we can keep our placements in the county and maintain the strong relationships, friendships and school arrangements that are so important. It provides much-needed stability and can make the move that little bit easier.”

East Lothian Council said that youngsters came into foster care for a range of reasons and could need short-term or long-term placements.

A council spokesperson said: “East Lothian’s foster carers come from a diverse range of backgrounds and households, including single people and same-sex couples.

“They are all committed to providing a stable and loving home at a point where they are most needed.”

Foster carers receive support from dedicated social workers, payment and ongoing training, and connections with other foster carers as part of the support offered by the council.

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