Charity warns of shortages in the South West over the next year.

More than 550 extra foster carers are needed in the South West next year, a charity has warned.

The figures, published by the Fostering Network, show that since 2008 the number of children living with foster families in England has risen by 16 per cent, and is continuing to rise.

It also raised concerns about the ageing foster carer population.

Helen Clarke, recruitment and retention expert at the Fostering Network, said: “By becoming a foster carer people can help the children they welcome into their homes to have the best possible opportunity of a positive future, to do well at school and be successful in later life.”

For more information call Fosterline on 0800 040 7675.