Interested Hampshire residents are being invited to an informal drop-in event on May 25, hosted by Hampshire County Council's Fostering Service at The Arc in Winchester, from 2pm-4pm.

This forms part of Foster Care Fortnight (May 13-26), an annual campaign by The Fostering Network to raise the profile of fostering.

The event offers an opportunity to learn more about it and the extensive training and support available. Throughout the campaign, foster carers and children are sharing fond memories of their experiences.

Potential foster carers are required to be over 21, have a spare room, and demonstrate patience, resilience and positivity.

Cllr Edward Heron, county council’s cabinet lead member for children’s services, said: "It is incredible to hear from our foster carers, including their own birth children, as well as the children in their care, as they speak about the profound impacts that different fostering moments have had on their lives – from the ordinary to the life-changing.

"I would urge anyone interested in fostering to visit our team at the upcoming event on 25 May or if they are unable to attend, to get in touch with our fostering service for an informal chat using the contact details on our website."