Have you ever considered being a foster carer?
That is the question from Fife Council, which is striving to tackle the growing numbers of children coming into care.
Enid Jamieson, Fife Council team manager, said: “We know that children’s lives can be transformed by being cared for by a foster family.
“We are here to guide and support anyone who is interested in caring for children. We can introduce them to some of our current foster carers, so they can share their experiences and give a real insight into what is involved in fostering a child.
“I would encourage anyone who has thought about fostering to get in touch by calling us on 01383 602235, or going to www.fifedirect.org.uk/fosterforfife. You can register this way for our next information session on January 30.”
Councillor Bryan Poole, spokesperson for education, children, young people and families, said: “To help make 2015 better for a child in Fife, please contact us to find out more about becoming a foster carer.
“Sadly, there are more and more children coming into care in Fife and while we are working with families to help support them, we still have an urgent need for foster carers.
“There are lots of people in Fife who would make great foster parents and many children who would really benefit from being part of a loving family.”
Several people who are looked after by Fife Council have given their views on foster care.
The young people all expressed the need for good balanced relationships between themselves and foster carers.
Gregor, 17, said: “Fostering is good because it can take kids out of a situation they don’t want to be in and provides stability.
“Going into care can be a very scary time. The fear of the unknown adds to anxiety and stress, so it is vital that foster placements are more than somewhere to stay.
“Young people want to feel welcomed and supported have someone who will be there for them no matter what.”
One of the young people consulted has just moved in with a new foster family before Christmas.
Jenni, 12, said: “Already ‘it feels like home because it is what a family should be like. I wanted a family for Christmas and I got one.”