A new virtual fostering hub has been launched to attract urgently needed foster carers.

Fostering South West was launched in April to bring together the expertise of 14 councils from across the South West region - including North Somerset Council.

The council-led initiative aims to provide a central point of contact for those interested in fostering, offering comprehensive assistance to prospective foster carers at every stage of their journey.

It will help individuals understand how fostering could fit into their lives, enabling them to make informed decisions.

The hub is hosted by Wiltshire Council and funded by the Department for Education.

Carrie Worth, Fostering South West team manager, said: "Fostering South West is an incredibly exciting opportunity for the region to work together, share their knowledge and expertise, and work collectively to create more safe and loving homes for children and young people in the care of their local authority.

"The hub will provide a central point for people to learn and enquire about fostering and to receive support throughout their journey to becoming a foster carer."

The hub also announced a partnership with Mood Bears, a part of the Tomy brand, dedicated to promoting wellbeing and positive mental health for children.

It will provide foster carers with access to various resources and support, ensuring every child in care can thrive in a loving and stable environment.

Joanna, founder of Mood Bears, said: "At Mood Bears, we share this commitment to supporting children’s emotional well-being, making this partnership with Fostering South West a natural fit.

"Together, we aim to create environments where children feel safe, understood, and supported throughout their foster care journey."

The initiative has received praise from minister for children and families, Janet Daby.

She said: "Foster carers are a precious part of the children’s social care system – welcoming children into their families and providing a safe home for them to flourish.

"It’s fantastic to see the launch of Fostering South West and the hub will be a valuable touchpoint for carers throughout their fostering recruitment journey, offering valuable support, guidance, and training."

The hub is committed to recruiting carers from a range of different backgrounds and circumstances in the region.

Councillor Catherine Gibbons, North Somerset Council’s executive member for children’s services, families and lifelong learning, said: "We welcome carers of all ages, backgrounds, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, and relationship statuses – you just need to be over 21 with a spare room.

"Get in touch now to find out more and start your fostering journey."

Local authority foster carers receive extensive local training, substantial financial support, and continuous assistance from a dedicated non-profit organisation.

This community focus benefits the children, as it helps keep them local, allowing them to continue living in the community they know, with as little change as possible.

More information on becoming a local council foster carer can be found on Fostering South West’s website, www.fosterwithyourlocalcouncil.org, or speak directly to a member of the recruitment team via 0300 456 0120, or info@fosterwithyourlocalcouncil.org.uk.