PEOPLE in Lancashire who are thinking of becoming foster carers can find out more at an information evening on Wednesday, September 20.

The event is to be held at County Hall, on Fishergate Hill in Preston, from 6pm to 7.30pm.

Members of Lancashire County Council's fostering team, as well as social workers and foster carers, will be on hand to answer questions, talk you through the process and offer advice.

The county council has recently increased the allowances payable to new foster carers so now they can expect to receive between £241 and £415 per week for each child they care for.

County councillor Susie Charles, cabinet member for children, young people and schools, said: "With around 20 Lancashire children needing homes each week, we need to recruit new foster carers.

"We have increased our allowances to foster carers this year in recognition of their valuable role in providing loving homes for the children in our care. There is also a rising demand for placements with more children and young people coming into the care of the local authority each week.

"We are looking for people who can foster all ages of children, particularly siblings who need to stay together and teenagers. No formal experience or qualifications are needed, all we ask is that you have a spare room available and a desire to make a difference to a local child's life."

A package of support is available 24/7 to help foster carers in their role, including local support groups, their own social worker, a dedicated helpline and flexible training.

If you're unable to go along on the night, call the fostering recruitment team on 0300-1236723 or visit www.lancashire.gov.uk/fostering.

There is no need to book for the information evening - simply turn up, but people are asked to arrive early to avoid disappointment.

Free parking is available at the Arthur Street car park, next to County Hall, and the Pitt Street entrance is accessible for disabled people.