A 13-strong group of staff, foster carers and social workers are set to climb Africa's highest mountain.

The team from Foster Care Associates, which has an office in Carnforth, will climb Mount Kilimanjaro next month (Feb) to raise funds for The Rees Foundation – a charity which supports individuals who have spent time in care.

The recently-launched registered charity offers those who have been in foster or residential care the important support they need to cope with independent living at any stage in their lives.

The 11-day trek, taking place from February 6 to 16, will see the group walking in temperatures ranging from very hot at the outset to bitterly cold when they reach the summit. In the lead up to the climb they have been put through their paces with regular training sessions in Snowdonia to ensure they are in peak condition.

David Oldham, CEO of Foster Care Associates, said: “This challenge brings together a group of people who feel passionately about establishing a strong support network for those who have spent time in care. The climb and our fundraising target are both very steep and we are very grateful for all donations.”

The team hope to raise more than £50,000. To make a donation email sarah.milan@reesfoundation.org, or go online at https://www.justgiving.com/RFkili15 or text REES57 £(amount) to 70070.