BEXLEY Council is encouraging anyone interested in becoming a foster parent to come forward.

The appeal comes during Foster Care Fortnight, a nationwide campaign running until May 28 to encourage more people to foster.

Foster families are needed from all backgrounds for children from the ages of 0 to 18 years old.

A spokeswoman for the council said: “Children need foster families for a variety of reasons.

“It could be due to illness or a crisis within the family.

“Many children needing a foster home have suffered from some form of abuse, including neglect.”

She added: “The council particularly welcomes foster carers who can look after teenagers, children with disabilities and sibling groups.

“It also needs carers for black and minority ethnic children.”

For more information, call the council on 0800 783 7699 and ask for an information pack.