We want to hear from you because every new foster home makes a real difference to children

A Lancashire fostering agency is inviting people across Blackpool, Poulton-le-Fylde and the wider North West to find out more about becoming foster carers as the Government launches a nationwide campaign to recruit thousands of new carers across England.

Beacon Fostering will host a free drop-in information session in Poulton-le-Fylde on Thursday 5 November, from 11am to 1pm, offering individuals, couples and families the opportunity to learn about fostering in an informal setting.

The event comes amid growing demand for foster carers, with more children needing safe, stable and nurturing homes. Across Lancashire and the wider North West, the agency says there is an increasing need for people willing to provide loving homes for children and young people who cannot live with their birth families.

Beacon Fostering is encouraging people from Poulton-le-Fylde, Blackpool, Fleetwood, Fylde, Preston and surrounding areas to explore whether fostering could be right for them.

Challenging misconceptions about fostering

National recruitment efforts have highlighted the need for more foster carers while challenging long-standing misconceptions about who can foster. People from a wide range of backgrounds, occupations and family circumstances may be eligible, including those who are single, married, employed, self-employed or retired.

Beacon Fostering provides training, competitive fostering allowances and ongoing support to help carers succeed. Its therapeutic approach aims to help foster carers build positive relationships with children and provide stable, nurturing environments where young people can thrive.

Simon Williams, speaking on behalf of Beacon Fostering, said: "There are many people in our community who have the compassion, commitment and stability needed to become exceptional foster carers but simply don't realise they're eligible. Our information sessions are designed to provide honest, practical information in a relaxed environment where people can explore fostering without any pressure or obligation.

“We're particularly keen to hear from people across Lancashire, Blackpool, Fylde and the wider North West who may be considering fostering. Every new foster home makes a real difference to local children who need care, stability and support."

What to expect at the information session

Visitors will be able to speak directly with experienced fostering professionals and learn more about the different aspects of becoming a foster carer.

Topics covered will include:

• Who can become a foster carer.
• The different types of fostering available.
• The application and assessment process.
• Training and ongoing support.
• Financial allowances and benefits.
• The positive impact fostering can have on a child's future.

Tea, coffee and refreshments will be available, and members of the Beacon Fostering team will be on hand throughout the session to answer questions and explain the support available to carers. The event is open to anyone interested in learning more about fostering, whether they are actively considering becoming a foster carer or are simply curious about what it involves.

There is no obligation to begin an application, and attendees are welcome to drop in, ask questions and explore whether fostering could be the right opportunity for them. Anyone interested in attending or finding out more about fostering can visit www.beaconfostering.com. Tickets are also available through the agency's event booking link.