Do you want to be a foster carer?

A childcare agency in Oldham are looking for people throughout the borough who are considering fostering to sign up during 'Fostering February'. 

Alpha Plus Fostering, based in Chambers Business Centre on Chapel Road, are part of the National Fostering Group - the fostering division of Outcomes First Group, the UK's largest and leading children and adult care, education and residential provider. 

The agency is supporting the 'Fostering February' campaign - which will involve staff from across each of the group's fostering agencies venturing out to designated locations as chosen by those interested in fostering.

There, interested people will be able to hear more about what fostering entails, how long it takes to be assessed and ultimately become an approved foster carer. But, most importantly, those interested in fostering will be able to ask as many questions as they like.

A statement from the National Fostering Group said: "The primary goal of the campaign is to make people aware of the need for over 8,000 more foster families to bridge the current gap in ratio of foster carers to children and young people needing safe and loving homes.

"Last year we had over 1,500 enquiries from people wanting to become foster carers off the back of the campaign – and we are aiming for even more interest this year!

"Whether you want to chat in your local coffee shop or in the comfort of your own home, the team at the National Fostering Group will answer all of your questions." 

Anyone interested in finding out more about becoming a foster carer can arrange a meeting by visiting www.nfa.co.uk.