A DRIVE to recruit more foster parents in Clacks is being continued by the local authority.

The council is keen to bring down costs associated with external placements as officials attempt to deal with the difficult ongoing financial situation.

“The needs are great but the rewards are greater”, said Councillor Les Sharp, the SNP administration’s spokesperson for health and social services as he renewed the appeal.

Last year, Clackmannanshire Council’s Scrutiny Committee heard how external fostering placements and associated transport costs contributed towards budget overspends, but work has since been underway with a robust advertising campaign to increase the pool of internal carers and adopters.

Foster parents can come from all walks of life, could be home owners or live in a rented property.

People who are single, same sex couples, married residents or those in a civil partnership are all eligible.

All prospective foster parents need is at least one spare bedroom that can welcome a young person, along with patience, empathy, motivation, commitment and a good sense of humour.

Existing carers are also being encouraged to contact the council, which promises training opportunities, ongoing support and competitive fees and allowances.

Continual support will come from a named worker and there are also events where foster carers can regularly meet to share their experiences and skills.

A drop-in evening will be held at Alloa Town Hall on Tuesday, June 5, between 6-8pm, with experienced carers and council staff on hand to speak with anyone interested.

Cllr Sharp said: “We want to encourage local people to think about if they could become a foster carer for children in Clackmannanshire.

“This can vary from providing short respite breaks to adoption or offering a young adult a supported environment before they step out to the world on their own.

“We are committed to recruiting, supporting and developing our carers in Clackmannanshire so they can care for these children – the needs are great, but the rewards are greater.

“The friendly team is looking forward to hearing from local people and explaining more about the opportunities available.”

More details are also available by emailing fosteradopt@clacks.gov.uk or calling 01259 225 000.