A TEAM of social workers and foster carers, who turned out at Bromsgrove Carnival as part of fostering fortnight, has helped boost the number of inquires about the service.

Worcestershire County Council's fostering and adoption team is delighted with the response to its campaign to recruit more foster carers which kicked off last month - inquiries have almost doubled.

Social workers and foster carers gave up their weekend to attend Bromsgrove Carnival and answer questions from the public to try and dispel myths about who can and cannot foster.

For example, foster carers do not have to be married, work or own their own home - neither do applicants have to be over 45 years of age.

Fostering and adoption team manager Debbie Key said: "We are delighted with the response we have had. The inquiries so far have nearly doubled.

"We would still encourage people to come forward.

"Fostering is not rocket science, it is about time, space, energy, patience and being able to stick with children when they need you."

The authority needs to recruit at least 40 more fostering families to offer at least 54 new placements. It needs foster placements for children of all ages, particularly brothers and sisters.

People can get involved in different ways, even through respite (part time) fostering.

For more information, call 0800 028 2158.