A fostering agency is on the lookout for carers due to a shortage in Hertfordshire.

Nexus Fostering, which operates in the county, is urging foster carers who can offer children, boundaries, support and care to come forward after recent figures suggested 1,010 young people are currently in care in Hertfordshire alone.

Katrina McDuff, of Nexus Fostering which operates in Hertfordshire, said: “We aim to place young people within their local area because many children will already have friends and a school which they are comfortably settled at.

“One of the main issues causing the shortage in foster carers is the lack of understanding.

“Many people do not realise that fostering is a career and others are not aware that they could qualify to be a carer.”

For practical reasons, carers need to have a spare bedroom and, depending on where they live, a driving licence and access to a car.

Nexus Fostering carers can expect to receive regular training sessions to equip them with the skills they need, support from the Nexus team including their own assigned social worker, an allowance of between £357 to £819 per week and a fortnights paid respite per year.

The agency will have a stand at the ‘Community at the Colosseum’ event in Watford on 31st October between 11am and 3pm for anyone who is curious about becoming a foster carer to come and find out more.