The council says it urgently needs more people to come forward who can make a positive difference in a child’s life by providing stable and caring homes. The event is an opportunity to meet adopters and foster carers and learn more about:

• The assessment process and taking those first steps 
• What it’s like to foster or adopt from people that have already done it
• The financial and professional support on offer and the training opportunities
• Theraplay and other therapeutic support

You can also meet members of the Foster Care Association who can tell you about the social side of fostering and, in the council's words, the "fantastic work they do to provide activities for Southampton's looked after children".

Refreshments will be provided and the event is child-friendly. Parking is free of charge. 

Councillor John Jordan, Cabinet Member for Children & Families at Southampton City Council, said: “Children who come into the care of Southampton City Council do so because their birth families are unable to care for them. Many of them have experienced neglect and trauma. All of these children need a loving, stable home. We’re asking anyone who has ever thought about adoption or fostering to come along and meet our friendly team this Saturday at the Ageas Bowl to find out more. Whether you’re married, single, gay or straight, if you think you might be able to give a vulnerable child a loving home, please get in touch.”

To learn more about fostering and adoption,

Visit: www.southampton.gov.uk/fostering 
Visit: www.southampton.gov.uk/adoption  

Or call: 0800 5 19 18 18