WOULD-BE foster carers and adoptive parents, who are being sought desperately by Cambridgeshire County Council, can now find out what would be involved at the click of a mouse. The county has 350 children in local authority care, but just 141 foster carer

WOULD-BE foster carers and adoptive parents, who are being sought desperately by Cambridgeshire County Council, can now find out what would be involved at the click of a mouse.

The county has 350 children in local authority care, but just 141 foster carers.

The shortage will be highlighted during National Foster Care Fortnight, a national awareness-raising campaign, which begins on Monday.

The county council also has a freephone information line (0800 052 0078) for prospective foster carers and adopters where people can request further details and an information pack.

Head of fostering and adoption, Jackie Coventry, said: "Many people now have access to the Internet and use it as their main source of information.

"So we wanted to remind people that they can now easily access information on how to become a carer and to give them information on the financial assistance and training support we provide for people who help us look after some of the most vulnerable young people in our community."

Cambridgeshire's fostering and adoption team is looking for people from all walks of life who could offer caring and supportive homes to children and young people.

Applicants may be married, same sex couples, single or living with a partner, working or unemployed, with or without children of their own, white or from an ethnic minority - people need energy and a willingness to look after a child or young person who needs support, the council said.

In return, it is offering financial support, preparation and training, NVQ study opportunities, essential equipment and 24-hour support from specialist social services staff.

INFORMATION: Foster Care Fortnight is co-ordinated by the leading fostering charity the Fostering Network. Further details on www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk