A FOSTERING charity is urging people to become carers as the number of children in care has increased in the last 10 years.

The number of children in care in England has risen by 27 per cent in the last decade, according to the leading children's charity Barnardo's.

The charity is urgently calling for more people across Berkshire to consider fostering and offer placements for children.

Javed Khan, Barnardo's chief executive said: "As the number of children in care continues to rise, we need more foster carers than ever before.

"At Barnados we find loving families for vulnerable children in communities across the UK and we give foster carers the training and support they need."

One family from Berkshire went to the charity after their local authority didn't manage to issue them the right placement.

The family who wish to remain anonymous said: "Challenging behaviour doesn't worry us and we manage it by being consistent, firm but fair and not blowing things out of proportion.

"If you didn't have natural patience then I am not sure these types of placements would be right for you.

"We love the buzz of fostering but it is crucial that you get the right match. With long term fostering it is good that you can meet the children in advance. You must be honest if you dont think it will work and while this is difficult, if it isnt the right placemetn it isn't good for you and even more upsetting for the child."

Reasons as to why children are being taken into care as due to the increase in child poverty, a lack of early intervention and lack of support for families before they reach crisis point.

Figures from Ofsted also show that the number of approved carers has dropped by 950 in just one year. According to Bardnardo's, if these trends continue it will become even more difficult to find good foster placement for vulnerable children.

The foster family added: "I enjoy the variety of fostering and I love the lively atmosphere at home. It is a privilege to get the chance to care for these children and be a part of their lives, for however long that may be."