WIGAN Council is joining an exciting nationwide campaign to recruit more foster carers to look after children who cannot live with their own families.

Recently launched "fostering network" is a new government sponsored campaign created specially for members of the public who are interested in becoming foster carers.

Call free on 0800 965985, or key in www.fosteringnetwork.co.uk for full information about fostering. Those who wish to be considered as foster carers will be referred to the council's family placement team.

Launching the campaign Councillor Brian Strett (Health and Social Services) said: "The Borough is playing its part in the very first national foster care recruitment campaign. This is a very important, prestigious government initiative and Wigan Council is working closely with central government to further enhance Council services."

Kath Nelson, Assistant Director for Children and Family Services, added: "Foster carers provide a vital service to children and families who are looked after by the Council.

"The community has responded magnificently to recruitment campaigns in the past and I am sure they will respond positively now."