FAMILIES in Bracknell Forest are urged to become foster carers after a national shortfall of people coming forward.

Issues such as eligibility criteria, rigorous assessments and the need for a spare bedroom make it hard for families to look after foster children.

Councillor Gareth Barnard, Bracknell Forest Council's Executive Member for Children, Young People and Learning, said: “There are some myths about fostering, such as you can’t foster if you already have children which mean people rule themselves out incorrectly.

“One of the issues we face is that while some young people that enter into care can be looked after by friends or family, many others require a caring person or family unknown to them to give them the support they need to thrive.”

Emma and Graeme Shaw have been fostering since December 2017 and had a short-term placement for a 14-year-old boy. On some weekends, they look after a 14-year-old girl with physical disabilities and have now fostered a 16-year-old boy.

The 40-year-olds also have two children, Ellie who is ten years old and George, who is 9 years old. Emma said: “My son was much more concerned about the practical aspects of fostering, for example would this affect the amount of pocket money he gets.”

The mother of two added: “Many people worry about the impact fostering can have on their own children, which stops many families from applying all together.

“We always wanted to do beneficial and worthwhile things and to give children a chance in life.”

Last month celebrated National Sons and Daughters Month and the Fostering Network reported that more than 7,000 families were needed nationally.

Currently, there are 50 households actively fostering in Bracknell Forest, and so far this year the council have approved seven new fostering homes. However, the council are still pushing for more people to apply.

Emma added: “Fostering isn’t all singing and dancing and the hardest thing about approval for fostering was the rigorous assessment process. However, the social workers are there for you and help you through the process.”

Cllr Barnard said: “As a local authority we are committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for children, which in most cases means placing them in a foster placement with local families/individuals.

“Many people worry about the impact of fostering on their own children, however it can be a positive and enriching experience.”