Recruitment drive to attract more foster parents

A campaign to recruit more foster parents in Wolverhampton will be launched across the city next week.

There are more than 200 fostering households in the city, but City of Wolverhampton Council said it was appealing to more people to become involved.

Its team will be at the Wulfrun Centre with an information stall on Monday, Wednesday and Friday next week from 10:00 to 16:30 GMT.

Councillor Jacqui Coogan, cabinet member for children, young people and education, said becoming a foster parent was a life-changing experience, both for parents and the children they care for.

"We're incredibly proud of the over 200 fostering households in our city, but there are still more children who need a safe and loving home," she said.

"If you have a spare room and love to give, we'd love to hear from you."

Placements can be for a few days or a number of years, and foster parents receive a regular, tax exempt fee and allowance to cover the cost of bringing up the child, the city council said.

Online information sessions will also be held on Tuesday and Thursday from 18:30 to 19:30.

Coogan added: "Our team, along with experienced foster parents, will be available at these events to answer your questions and share their experiences. We're here to guide and support you every step of the way."

Follow BBC Wolverhampton & Black Country on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.