Find out more about fostering an older child in Dorset

Around three-quarters of children waiting for a foster placement in the county are aged 11 or over and, as part of Fostering Fortnight (May 12-25), Dorset County Council is appealing for more people to consider looking after an older child or teenager.

Residents are invited to pop along to the following drop-in sessions to chat to the fostering team, meet foster carers and find out about looking after an older child.

Sessions will be held on Tuesday, May 13, at The Dorford Centre in Dorchester from 4.30pm till 9pm and on Friday, May 23, at The Hanham Centre in Wimborne from 10am till 2pm.

Cabinet member for children’s safeguarding and families Cllr Rebecca Knox said: “We are always on the look-out for more foster carers but what we really need are carers for children aged 11 and over.

“It’s a hard enough time for most young people but, for those in care, it can be even harder. We need foster carers who can provide the stability and boundaries to keep a teen safe, but also help them find their feet and encourage them to reach their full potential.

“Although challenging, fostering can also be incredibly rewarding. The right foster family can help turn a young person’s life around, and relationships are often made that will last a lifetime.”

People from all walks of life will be considered for fostering. Anyone interested is urged to get in touch and find out more.

For more information about fostering in Dorset call 0800 1959654, or visit www.dorsetforyou.com/fostering.