A bus advertising campaign is to be unveiled as Northumberland County Council launches a fresh plea to recruit foster carers for the county's children. It will build on the success of last year's travelling billboard, which helped produce a 35% increase in foster carer inquiries throughout 2006-07. The county council currently looks after over 300 children within foster homes and residential establishments. It needs to recruit about 60 new foster carers over the next two years, so that it can place children and young people into the most appropriate family environments. Coun Jim Wright, executive member for children's services at the council, said: "Our foster carers carry out vital work with the children that they care for - offering a room and a family environment is only the start of their job. "There is a real need for more people to become foster carers and we urge anyone considering it to come forward and find out more." The council is issuing the call during Foster Care Fortnight - aimed at raising awareness of the giving families who brighten the lives of countless youngsters. It is hoped that the campaign, which runs from Monday, May 14, will encourage potential foster carers to find out more. Foster Care fortnight is coordinated nationally by fostering charity, Fostering Network, and aims to highlight the shortage of foster carers across the UK. Northumberland County Council is continuing to recruit new foster carers for all children, but is particularly seeking more carers for young people on both short and long-term durations. For an informal chat, contact the foster care team on (01670) 534450, or email familyplacement@northumberland.gov.uk | 
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