CIVIC CHIEFS have pleaded for potential foster carers to come forward in the city.

Southampton City Council is calling on residents to consider the profession, and is hosting six information events in three weeks.

Following one at St Mary’s Stadium on April 1, the council have also invited community members to have a stall this morning at the civic centre between 10am and 12pm.

Councillor Paul Lewzey, cabinet member for children’s care said: “We need new foster carers from in and around Southampton to come forward to help us look after some of our most vulnerable children in the city. “At present we have a particular need for carers to look after older children, sibling groups and children with additional needs.”

The council states that almost anyone can become a foster carer, as long as they have a spare room.

New and existing foster carers with the council will receive a one-off grant of £1,635.

COUNCIL FOSTERING EVENTS THROUGHOUT APRIL ARE:

Today, 10am until 4pm, Whiteley Shopping Village.

April 18, 10am until 4pm, Paulton’s Park.

April 19, 10am until 3.30pm, Asda, Marlands Shopping Centre.

April 23, from 9am, Southampton Marathon Race Village.